The 10 Best Japanese Horror Movies

Westerners’ opinions on “J-horror” are frequently associated with spooky, spectral girls emerging from dark wells. This is understandable given the explosion of J-horror in the late 1990s and early 2000s, spearheaded by Hideo Nakata’s seminal ‘Ringu’ (1998). Some of the most iconic Japanese horror films came out during this time.

But Japan has a rich cinematic history that goes far beyond scary movies; it has one of the biggest and oldest film industries in the world. Ever since film equipment was brought to this formerly remote island nation, Japanese filmmakers have explored their darkest fears and the archaic genre known as Kaidan, which translates roughly to “ghost story.”

We’ve gathered a wide range of Japan’s best horror films in this list, covering several genres and decades and each providing a different perspective on Japanese fright.

Also Read: These Are The Creepiest Horror Movie Twins

– Farheen Ali