Get ready to dive into the world of Japanese mythology as we unveil the real story behind the popular anime and manga, Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun.
Summary
- Hanako-kun is actually a girl – Hanako-san.
- Behind the myth of Hanako-san is a real life incident.
- Mermaids from Japanese folklore are very dangerous.
Hanako-ku… san!
Our anime story begins when Nene, a bright and curious student, stumbles upon the infamous "seventh mystery" during her first year at Kamome Academy. Brave enough, Nene embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind Hanako-san's legend. Little did she know that she would soon find herself entangled in a world filled with ancient Japanese folklore. As Nene ventures deeper into this mystical realm, she discovers that Hanako-san is not just any ordinary spirit – he is actually based on a legendary figure from Japanese mythology.
Hanako-san is said to be a ghostly girl (!) who resides in school bathrooms. Legend has it that if you enter a specific stall, knock three times and ask "Are you there, Hanako-san?", she will respond with a spine-chilling reply. But who is she? Some claim she is a victim of tragedy or bullying, while others believe she is an innocent victim of dark forces. The popularity of Hanako-san has inspired numerous movies and books dedicated to her persona. This fascination intrigues both believers and skeptics alike.
Mermaids
Do you remember that scene when Hanako-kun ate some mermaid’s stuff at the beginning of the anime? We admit, it was a very good scene. In Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun (Jibaku Shounen Hanako-kun), mermaids are depicted exactly as they are in Japanese folklore — violent and a little bit crazy. These creatures have been a part of Japanese folklore for centuries, captivating imaginations and inspiring countless tales.
In Japanese mythology, mermaids are known as "ningyo." These mythical beings are often depicted as beautiful women with the lower body of a fish. They possess otherworldly powers and are believed to bring good fortune or disaster depending on how they are encountered.
According to legends, capturing a mermaid could bring immense wealth and prosperity. However, it is said that those who consume their flesh would face dire consequences. So this happened with Nene too, who used mermaids to get closer to her crush. Eating mermaid’s scales she was about to be transformed into a fish… But the reason she was not is because Hanako-kun suppresses half of the curse by eating another part of the flesh. Romantic, isn’t it?
So buckle up for a ride through Japanese folklore as Nene, Hanako-kun, and their allies battle against dark forces and discover Japanese folklore with you.