Kwaidan - Characters & Cast

To escape poverty and gain social status, later replaced by a desperate longing for his past happiness.

He abandons love for ambition, only to realize his mistake too late. His return home is a journey into delusion, shattering when he wakes to the rotting reality of his choices.

To survive the cold and protect his family, but eventually to unburden himself of his trauma.

He survives a brush with death by making a promise, lives a full life, but ultimately destroys his happiness by succumbing to the human need to share his secret.

To perform his art; he is initially unaware he is performing for ghosts, driven simply by the command of 'nobles'.

A blind monk whose talent becomes his curse. He moves from a humble performer to a captive of ghosts, losing his ears but gaining legendary status through his suffering.

To exist according to her nature; she tests Minokichi's loyalty to his word.

She spares Minokichi on a whim, lives as a human for years showing genuine care, but instantly reverts to her cold nature when the contract is broken.