Kwaidan (1965)

Kernel Score: 88% · 442 ratings · Rated PG-13

Genres: Horror, Fantasy, Drama

Released: 1965-01-06

Runtime: 183 minutes

Where to watch Kwaidan

US availability, updated 2026-10-22.

Overview

Taking its title from an archaic Japanese word meaning "ghost story," this anthology adapts four folk tales. A penniless samurai marries for money with tragic results. A man stranded in a blizzard is saved by Yuki the Snow Maiden, but his rescue comes at a cost. Blind musician Hoichi is forced to perform for an audience of ghosts. An author relates the story of a samurai who sees another warrior's reflection in his teacup.

Kwaidan parents' guide: ages 11+

Parents need to know that Kwaidan is a PG-13 anthology of Japanese ghost stories with supernatural horror elements including vengeful spirits and a naval battle.

  • Violence & scariness: Moderate — Features ghost stories with vengeful spirits, a sea battle, and eerie supernatural threats across four folk tales.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official PG-13 rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

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Director

Masaki Kobayashi

Cast

  • Michiyo Aratama as First Wife (segment "The Black Hair")
  • Rentaro Mikuni as Husband (segment "The Black Hair")
  • Misako Watanabe as Second Wife (segment "The Black Hair")
  • Kenjirō Ishiyama as Father (segment "The Black Hair")
  • Ranko Akagi as Mother (segment "The Black Hair")
  • Fumie Kitahara as (segment "The Black Hair")
  • Kappei Matsumoto as (segment "The Black Hair") (uncredited)
  • Yoshiko Ieda as (segment "The Black Hair") (uncredited)
  • Otome Tsukimiya as (segment "The Black Hair") (uncredited)
  • Kenzō Tanaka as (segment "The Black Hair") (uncredited)

Kwaidan FAQ

Is Kwaidan good?

Kwaidan has an 88% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 442 audience ratings.

Where can I watch Kwaidan?

In the US you can stream Kwaidan on The Criterion Channel and HBO Max and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is Kwaidan OK for kids?

Kwaidan is rated PG-13. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that Kwaidan is a PG-13 anthology of Japanese ghost stories with supernatural horror elements including vengeful spirits and a naval battle.

What movies are like Kwaidan?

If you liked Kwaidan, try The Innocents, A Chinese Ghost Story, Zatoichi and Kill, Baby... Kill!.