Overview of Dandadan’s Folkloric Inspirations
- Each spirit in Dandadan draws inspiration from genuine myths, enriching the storyline.
- Characters such as Turbo Granny and the Earthbound Spirit Crab are rooted in traditional Japanese folklore.
- Other figures, including the Evil Eye and Umbrella Boy, are influenced by urban legends from various cultures worldwide.
Dandadan stands out as a captivating manga that delves into the clash between yokai (spirits) and extraterrestrial beings, with humanity caught in the tumult. Despite the creative prowess of author Yukinobu Tatsu, the supernatural entities that interact with Okarun, Momo, and their companions are not purely original; they are derived from existing folklore.
This rich blend of stories highlights how the powerful yokai in Dandadan often have counterparts in real-world traditions, showcasing a fascinating intersection of myth and creativity.
Turbo Granny
Inspired by the Urban Legend of Turbo Granny
- Debut: Chapter 1 (Manga), Episode 1 (Anime)
Turbo Granny, the emblematic yokai of Dandadan, empowers Okarun and represents the series’ charm. This intriguing figure, known for her remarkable speed, is rooted in a contemporary Japanese urban legend of the same name that has gained traction in recent years.
Legend has it that residents driving through Hyogo Prefecture have spotted an extraordinary elderly woman who runs so fast she can keep pace with their vehicles. Some variations suggest she captures drivers, potentially cursing them. Notably, Turbo Granny has also influenced other anime, such as the appearance of Dash Granny in Season 2 of Mob Psycho 100.
Earthbound Spirit Crab
Rooted in the Myth of the Heikegani Crabs
- Debut: Chapter 5 (Manga), Episode 4 (Anime)
Featured alongside Turbo Granny is the Earthbound Spirit Crab, a colossal spirit harboring the souls of young girls tragically lost in the Shono City tunnel. This poignant character is inspired by the Heikegani crab, which has a distinctive shell pattern resembling a human face.
The Heikegani is deeply linked to the legend of the Heike Warriors, who perished during the Battle of Dan-no-ura. Dandadan’s version of the Earthbound Spirit Crab adopts a modern narrative that emphasizes its emotional depth.
Acrobatic Silky
Drawn from Acrobatic Sara Sara and La Llorona
- Debut: Chapter 13 (Manga), Episode 6 (Anime)
Acrobatic Silky showcases a unique blend of inspiration, diverging from relying solely on a single myth. This enigmatic yokai combines elements of two tragic legends: the Acrobatic Sara Sara from Japan and the haunting tale of La Llorona from Latin America.
Primarily influenced by Acrobatic Sara Sara, this story centers around a tall, acrobatic woman dressed in red, echoing the eerie nature of its precursor amidst tragic lore. Meanwhile, hints of La Llorona’s fabled search for her lost children are woven into Acrobatic Silky’s narrative, making for a richly complex character.
Evil Eye
Inspired by the Curse of the Evil Eye
- Debut: Chapter 28 (Manga), Episode 11 (Anime)
In a gripping subplot, Jiji Enjoji becomes a vessel for the formidable Evil Eye. This character’s backstory reveals he was a youth wrongfully chosen as a sacrifice, leading to a life steeped in jealousy and resentment.
The historical context of the Evil Eye serves as an emblem of envy and adversity, paralleling its supernatural incarnation in Dandadan, where Tatsu brings this legend to life, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
Reiko Kashima
Inspired by Kuchisake-onna (Slit-Mouthed Woman)
- Debut: Chapter 74 (Manga)
Known as the Kuchisake-onna, Reiko Kashima captures the essence of one of Japan’s most notorious urban legends. This malevolent spirit, often portrayed in various media, asks her victims if they find her beautiful and reacts violently based on their answers.
Dandadan’s interpretation retains the core attributes of this chilling tale while offering a unique visual representation, blending the eerie with an unsettling charm.
Onbusuman / Mai Kawabanga
Inspired by Konaki-jiji and Obariyon Yokai
- Debut: Chapter 123 (Manga)
The intriguing Onbusuman character in Dandadan is a creative fusion of two lesser-known yokai: the Konaki-jiji and the Obariyon. The Konaki-jiji, resembling an elderly figure with a tortoise shell that tricks individuals into picking it up, contrasts with the playful yet burdensome Obariyon, which makes people unable to walk by clinging to their backs.
This innovative blend results in a character that is visually striking and embodies traditional themes of trickery and the supernatural.
Umbrella Boy / Futa Zuma
Rooted in the Kasa-obake Yokai
- Debut: Chapter 152 (Manga)
The character of Umbrella Boy, or Futa Zuma, initially presents an unusual premise with his umbrella-related abilities. His powers derive from his brother Futa Zuma, who transforms into a Kasa-obake, a familiar yokai known for its quirky, mischievous nature.
This yokai, characterized by its transformation from an old umbrella, captivates audiences with its whimsical attributes, reinforcing Yukinobu Tatsu’s ingenuity in adapting traditional mythology into vibrant and engaging narratives.
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