Evaporated: Gone with the Gods Introducing... The Evaporated: Gone with the Gods
Dec 8, 2023
What drives people to intentionally vanish? This podcast dives into the cultural significance of disappearances in Japan, revealing deep-seated beliefs surrounding 'kamikakushi' and 'johatsu'. It examines the underground networks supporting those who choose to evaporate, raising ethical questions about aiding their escape. Additionally, the emotional toll on families left behind is explored, shedding light on the complex dynamics of loss and absence in society.
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Vanishing in Japan
- Disappearances in Japan have a long history, formerly attributed to "kamikakushi" (hidden by gods).
- Modern terms include "shiso" (to disappear) and "johatsu" (to evaporate).
Scale of Disappearances
- Over 80,000 people go missing yearly in Japan.
- Many Japanese people know someone who has vanished.
Intentional Evaporation
- Some disappearances are intentional, facilitated by "night movers."
- Manuals exist to guide people through the process.
