Discovering Chofu by KCP Spring 2023 student Andalucia Curtis (Part 2)

Japanese superstitions are deeply rooted in the history and culture of the people. Japan also has its fair share of creepy legends, ghost stories and local ghoulish monsters. Yokai (mythical spirits) and yurei (ghosts of the deceased) are part of local folklore for many centuries as far back as the 8th century in the Kojiki (“Records of Ancient Matters”), the earliest record of Japanese mythology that chronicles the creation of Japan.

Join KCP student Andalucia, In her own words as she shares her insights and experiences with Yokai and more of what’s to discover at Jindaiji in the second part of her adventures in Chofu!

After exploring Jindaiji, the second oldest temple in Tokyo, I headed to Jindaiji’s yokai attractions which includes a gift shop, a yokai-themed cafe, and even a 100-yen yokai museum. Specifically, these attractions are for the franchise Gegege no Kitaro, as the original mangaka, Mizuki Shigeru, lived in Chofu for over 50 years. Gegege no Kitaro helped popularize Japanese mythology (and yokai in-particular), and still is renowned today. In Chofu, there is great care and attention put into each attraction, and any fans of the supernatural are sure to have fun.

Next to the temple is also the Jindaiji Botanical Garden, open daily until 5pm (gates close at 4). Unfortunately, I was not able to go in, but since it’s the biggest botanical garden in all of Tokyo and only costs 500 yen, I will absolutely take a trip back for it.

All in all, Chofu is a lovely place and a good break from the commotion of more popular areas in Tokyo. Even more, as it has so many yokai-themed attractions around, there’s a fun, fantastical element to the area. If you are ever up for a unique adventure, absolutely head over there!

Check out Part 1, here.