Myths and Legends 402: Japanese folklore: Misconceptions
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Feb 12, 2025 Delve into three captivating love stories from Japan that reveal the complexities of relationships. Discover how a man mistakes his circumstances for widowhood, while two frogs leave their homes to explore new roots. Meet Sakurako, a geisha torn between her glamorous life and societal expectations. Uncover the legend of the maikubi, a creature with three heads that bite each other in a chaotic festival. These tales intertwine love, sacrifice, and the eerie folklore of vengeful samurai heads.
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The Temporary Widower
- Yoshifuji, a merchant, becomes infatuated with a woman he meets on the road and follows her home.
- He spends 13 years in what he believes is a mansion, only to discover he's been living under his storehouse, tricked by foxes.
Two Frogs
- Two frogs, one from Kyoto and one from Osaka, journey to see the world outside their homes.
- Upon reaching a high point, they realize their destinations are just like their hometowns, leading them to return and appreciate what they have.
Contentment and Perspective
- Jason Weiser reflects on the story of the two frogs, relating it to personal experiences with wanting to move.
- He suggests that changing your perspective can be more impactful than changing your location.