Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales

About Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales

Meet Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales (怪～ayakashi～ Japanese Classic Horror), a horror, psychological and supernatural anime by Toei Animation (2006). Here is the premise in a nutshell. At its core: A collection of three classic Japanese horror stories: "Yotsuya Kaidan," the story of a wife betrayed by her husband who seeks vengeance even in death. "Tenshu Monogatari," the story of forbidden love between a goddess and a human, and "Bakeneko," the story of an unexplained cat monster with a vendetta against a certain family.

In a horror series like this, atmosphere, sound and restraint do the heavy lifting. Iemon Tamiya (Hiroaki Hirata) and Oiwa Tamiya (Mami Koyama) are two of the characters you will meet early.

It will appeal most to viewers comfortable with dark, unsettling material. At 11 episodes in total, it is easy to plan a viewing schedule.

Production & Appeal

Production sits with Toei Animation, which means the visual identity of Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales follows that studio's craft. Within the horror category, atmosphere, sound and restraint do the heavy lifting. Its 6.9/10 score suggests opinions are split, so it suits viewers who already like the genre. Voice casting, including Hiroaki Hirata as Iemon Tamiya, adds to the appeal for fans who follow seiyuu. It aired in 2006, which makes it easy to place in the wider anime calendar.