Japan’s Flower of Death

Discover the dark folklore surrounding higanbana, Japan’s striking red spider lily known as the “flower of death.” In this episode of Supernatural Japan, we explore its connection to cemeteries, the autumn equinox, Buddhist beliefs about the “other shore,” poisonous bulbs, and chilling superstitions warning people never to pick the flowers or bring them home. We also uncover the unsettling legend of a missing child who returned carrying an armful of higanbana—and learn why this mysterious flower can symbolize death, remembrance, fox spirits, and even heaven.

Website: supernaturaljapan.com (Sign up for our FREE newsletter)

Instagram: @supernaturaljapan (instagram.com/supernaturaljapan)

BECOME a Ghost by joining us on @patreon (patreon.com/JustJapanPodcast97)

Connect with Supernatural Japan:

Instagram: @supernaturaljapan (instagram.com/supernaturaljapan)

Facebook: @SupernaturalJapan (facebook.com/groups/supernaturaljapan)

BlueSky: @MadForMaple (bsky.app/profile/madformaple.bsky.social)

X: @MadForMaple (x.com/MadForMaple)

YouTube: youtube.com/@BusanKevin

Email: supernaturaljapan@gmail.com

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices