[Episode 12] Shonyu-en (Part 2) — Playing the Charlie Charlie Game at the Site of a Suicide Triggers Strange Phenomena. What Really Happened at This Ruin? We Use a Séance to Close in on the Hidden Darkness.

Part 2 of Episode 12, “Quiet Corpse.” The crew plays the Charlie Charlie game, a coin-based attempt at contacting spirits, at Shōnyūen.

Some explorers who actually visited report, “there were no strange phenomena or ghost sightings at all, and it was just ruin exploring.” A haunted spot’s rumor spreads from one event and keeps being told regardless of whether anyone experienced anything. A report that nothing happened is also weighty as a record.

In this part, strange phenomena are reported during the game. Such séances are staged and we do not encourage imitating them. It is entertainment with staged elements and we do not guarantee its accuracy.

What to Watch For

This part features the Charlie Charlie game, a coin-based attempt at contacting spirits. Such séances are staged and we do not encourage imitation. Keep in mind, too, that some explorers who visited the site report that nothing happened at all.

Our Take

That some explorers report “nothing happened” is weighty. Without strange phenomena, people find it hard to write an article or make a video, so the experiences that get told lean toward “something happened.” This is only our view, but the number of silent, uneventful nights that were never told must be far greater. Rumors look strong because silence is not recorded. The fact that this mountain inn existed as a pair with tourism to the nearby cave also gives pause. The beauty of nature does not always ease human suffering. That is why we want people to know there are places to talk with someone. If you are struggling, please do not carry it alone. In Japan, the Yorisoi Hotline (0120-279-338, free, 24 hours) offers support.