Learn Japanese with 妖怪
Vol. 6: 山姥（やまんば）
[PAPERBACK + DIGITAL]

A folklore-based Japanese reader for upper beginners who want to build real reading confidence while exploring darker traditional tales.

Physical paperback • Includes free digital files for this volume (PDF, MP3 audio, and Anki vocabulary deck)

About This Volume

Living in shadows and the in-between world of dreams and reality, 妖怪 thrive in the Japanese imagination. They may appear as monsters, ghosts, unnatural beings, or even everyday objects that have taken on a life of their own.

The 山姥（やまんば） is a terrifying mountain witch. She lives deep in the mountains and devours anyone who wanders into her domain. Unlike playful or mischievous yōkai, the 山姥 represents pure danger, isolation, and the fear of the wilderness.

In this volume, you will explore two classic legends involving the 山姥. One tells the story of an ox-cart man who encounters her during his deliveries. The other follows a young priest armed with three magical charms that may protect him from her power.

These stories are darker than most in the series and offer a fascinating look at how fear, survival, and faith appear in traditional Japanese folklore.

Length: 201 pages

What This Book Includes

• Multiple traditional stories centered on 山姥（やまんば）
• Each story presented in three formats:
  ① Sentence-by-sentence Japanese with explanations
  ② Japanese-only version for reading practice
  ③ Full English translation to confirm understanding
• Sentence-by-sentence sections include furigana over kanji, a complete glossary, and clear explanations of important grammar patterns in plain English
• Free audio downloads included (link provided on the final page of the book)
• Each story includes both normal-speed and slow-speed recordings read by Yumi
• Includes PDF e-book versions, sound files, and an Anki deck of the vocabulary at no extra charge

Stories Included

1. 牛方と山姥（うしかたとやまんば）
2. 山姥と三つの護符（やまんばとみっつのごふ）

Who Is This Book For?

This book is designed so that both newer learners and intermediate learners can benefit. The ideal level, however, is upper beginner, roughly around JLPT N4.

If you are ready to move beyond simple textbook sentences and want to read traditional Japanese stories—with guidance—this volume is an excellent challenge.

Ready to face one of Japan’s most frightening yōkai?

Click Add to Cart and complete your journey through the Learn Japanese with 妖怪 series.