The haunting legend of Hōichi the earless
Discover the tragic Japanese tale of a monk summoned by a mysterious samurai to sing of ancient battles. This video explores the origins of one of Japan's most famous ghost stories and the historical conflict that inspired it.
The legend centers on Hōichi, a skilled monk known for performing songs about the past. He was summoned to perform for a samurai at a temple built near the site of a significant naval battle. This naval engagement marked the end of the Genpei Wars, a long and violent period of conflict.
For centuries, performers across Japan used these haunting stories to honor the tragic history of the war. Jeffrey Angles examines the specific folklore surrounding Hōichi and the cultural significance of these performances.
Source: Japan's most famous ghost story - Jeffrey Angles
