
In this episode, we investigate the story known as "The Curse of the Mibu Temple Bell." Through our research, we discovered that this specific tale does not exist as a single, traditional Japanese legend. Instead, this podcast explores how a modern myth was born from a fascinating mix of separate elements. We'll look at the real history of Mibu-dera temple in Kyoto and its connection to the Shinsengumi warriors. Then, the episode delves into the actual source of famous bell legends, the nearby Mii-dera temple, and unpacks the classic tales of the loyal bell of Benkei and the Bell of Mugen. We will also analyze the dramatic Dōjōji legend, a story of obsessive love and monstrous transformation that has a direct link to Mibu-dera through its silent theatre. Finally, the podcast examines how the video game Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice masterfully combined these threads, creating a powerful new "phantom legend" for a global audience.