Bunraku (文楽) may be short, but its content is substantial.

There are:

• Bunraku is a traditional puppet show that originated in Osaka during the Edo period, around the 17th century.
• One puppet requires three puppeteers; there isn't much room for manipulation.
• Many plays were written by Chikamatsu Monzaemon.
• It is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stories and Legends

1. Puppets have spirits (Tsukumogami)

According to Japanese belief, things often remain as they are. Perhaps for 100 years, a spirit inhabits a Bunraku puppet and then is released to live its own normal life and mind.

2. Puppets change their facial expressions

Some caretakers and performers say that the puppets' facial expressions appear to be smiling or angry, but the main reason is due to lighting angles and physical factors.

3. The Curse of Tragic Drama

The popular drama The Love Suicides, which Sonezaki considers a tragic event and has been performed frequently, may bring danger to the cast, according to corroborating evidence.

4. The Uncanny Valley Explanation

The highly realistic puppetry and control have resulted in numerous losses, with many feeling unsettled or constantly haunted.