Nihon Mukashi Banashi is an old animated series (1970s to 2017) that recounts folktales, myths, and legends using visual styles that varies from episode to episode. This inconsistency comes from the series’ use of episodic directors and animators. Overall, however, the animated visuals “preserve” elements of the oral tradition which is how many tales were passed down across generations.

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Kamishibai (paper theater, in use from the 1920s to 1950s)

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Not much information is available on earlier episodes but 2012 seems to be the start of Nihon Mukashi Banashi’s newest form. From 2012 to the show’s end in 2017, two veteran voice actors provided all the narration and character voices.

Until now, this series was buried and “forgotten”.