GeGeGe no Kitaro Street and Yokai Temple ゲゲゲの鬼太郎の通りと妖怪の神社

GeGeGeno Kitaro, a work of cult

If this message of tolerance has contributed significantly to the success of the manga, it is above all, its fantastic universe that has conquered readers' hearts.

Immediate success in Japan, GeGeGe no Kitaro made it possible to popularize yokai stories among the general public.

Each story takes up legends of Japanese folklore and elements of traditional tales (some heroes of tales even making appearances in the manga), the universe of Kitaro is very extensive. And even today, Mizuki's work is one of the classics to know if you are interested in Japanese spirits.

To read: Japanese monsters and yokai.

Larue GeGeGeno Kitaro

Although Shigeru Mizuki was born in Osaka, the one we call today "the master of fantastic manga" remains associated with Chofu, a small town west of Tokyo where the artist would have spent the end of his life.

To pay homage to the mangaka, an entire street in the city has been dedicated to yokai!

A stone's throw from the temple, a store is even dedicated to the designer's flagship manga!

Both a café and a goodie shop, the store was built entirely in the likeness of the heroes of GeGeGe no Kitaro.

A small cabin in the trees where a few monsters are hiding , a witch's head sticking out of the garage in front of the heroes' van, the yokai have entirely taken over the place! And it's not the only store on the street to be haunted by Kitaro and his friends.

A little further on, a glacier was also "attacked" by spirits who left two giant shoes on its roof. A little prank that all lovers of the franchise will appreciate.

See also: 5 places from Japanese legends to visit

Jindaiji, the yokai temple

The street that houses the yokai of GeGeGe no Kitaro was not chosen by chance.

Jindaiji is the second oldest temple in Tokyo after Senjoji. Built in 733, it is a natural haven of peace located in the heart of the small town of Chofu.

Surrounded by greenery, the temple houses several buildings, including a statue of Buddha classified as a national treasure since 1909, as well as a botanical garden which makes it one of the most visited places in the city.

With its 42 hectares, the Jindaiji garden can be visited annually. And whether it is to come and admire the momiji in autumn, the cherry trees in spring, or the largest rose park in Tokyo, the garden will always have magnificent colors.

Although most Japanese come to pray for love and luck, Jindaiji is also famous for the spirits that are said to have made their home nearby.

Indeed, the temple hosts the most significant animal cemetery in Tokyo! And every year, many cat and dog owners come to deposit the urn or the commemorative photo of their deceased four-legged friend. A custom that, according to legend, would have given life to many yokai in the surrounding area ...

Also, note that the temple hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as performances of religious songs and the daruma festival in March.

Also, discover: 5 famous Japanese legends.