The Haunting Tale of Banchō Sarayashiki

When it comes to classic Japanese ghost stories, few are as iconic—or chilling—as Banchō Sarayashiki (The Dish Mansion at Banchō). This centuries-old tale of betrayal, injustice, and ghostly vengeance has captured the imagination of audiences since the Edo period.

The Tragic Story of Okiku

In this well-known version, the story centers around Okiku, a beautiful maid who serves in the household of a samurai named Aoyama Tesshū. Aoyama lusts after Okiku, but she repeatedly refuses his advances. In a cruel twist, he decides to trick her into submission.

Aoyama owns a valuable set of ten precious plates. He hides one and accuses Okiku of losing it—a crime punishable by death. Despite her desperate attempts to prove her innocence, she is tortured and eventually killed—thrown into a well on the estate.

After her death, her spirit returns night after night, counting the plates aloud: “One... two... three...” until she reaches nine. Then, with a blood-curdling scream, she cries out, realizing the tenth plate is still missing.

Her ghost’s voice echoes through the night, driving listeners to madness.

Cultural Significance

Banchō Sarayashiki has become a symbol of onryō, the vengeful spirit often seen in Japanese folklore. The image of Okiku counting dishes from beyond the grave has been featured in countless kabuki plays, films, and horror stories.

In a way, Okiku represents the powerless in society—wronged and silenced, yet ultimately remembered and feared. Her story is not only about ghostly revenge but also about justice denied.

Variations and Local Legends

Over the years, the story has taken on different regional forms. One notable version is Banshū Sarayashiki, set in modern-day Hyōgo Prefecture, which tells a slightly different tale.

But the Banchō version—set in Edo (old Tokyo)—remains the most widely known, especially in traditional theatre and ghost storytelling.

TL;DR

• Banchō Sarayashiki is one of Japan’s most famous ghost stories.

• A maid named Okiku is falsely accused of breaking a valuable dish set and is killed.

• Her ghost haunts the estate, counting the plates every night.

• The tale symbolizes betrayal, injustice, and the enduring power of the spirit world.

The tale of Okiku reminds us that some legends endure not only for their horror, but for their haunting humanity.