Japan's haunted house tradition, originating from kabuki theatre, offers air-conditioned relief during record-breaking summer heat.
Japan's haunted house tradition dates back to the association between summer and ancestral souls returning during the obon holiday. This summer staple offers relief from the heat by creating chilling, air-conditioned experiences that provide a refreshing escape from the stifling summer months. With Japan experiencing record-breaking heat due to climate change, the haunted house industry leverages its reputation for providing a "shudder that blows away the summer heat" to attract visitors. The tradition's origins can be traced back to the Japanese traditional theatre form of kabuki, where horror performances replaced human dramas in summer to engage audiences.
August 06, 2024
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