The Legacy of GeGeGe no Kitaro
From old-school classics to modern-day gems, Japan is home to a plethora of iconic horror anime. According to a recent survey, Japan's number one favorite horror anime is GeGeGe no Kitaro, a work based on the yokai creatures famous within Japanese folklore. This classic series has been a staple in Japanese culture for over 65 years, with its first anime adaptation airing in 1968.
GeGeGe no Kitaro's narrative revolves around the eponymous Kitaro, the sole survivor of a tribe that had relationships with supernatural beings known as yokai. The series' unique blend of horror and comedy has led to six distinct anime adaptations by Toei Animation, with the latest TV adaptation airing from April 2018 to March 2020. 
The Impact of GeGeGe no Kitaro
Survey participants praise GeGeGe no Kitaro as a work that handles the diverse world of Japanese mythology and folklore better than any other series. The series has had a lasting impact on Japanese culture, with its creator, Shigeru Mizuki, being honored with several commemorative initiatives in 2025 and 2026. 
The English edition of the GeGeGe no Kitaro manga is available from Drawn & Quarterly, and the 2018 anime adaptation is currently streaming on Crunchyroll. With its timeless appeal and enduring legacy, GeGeGe no Kitaro remains a must-watch for horror anime fans and a testament to the power of Japanese folklore and mythology.
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