Dead‑ly Escape: Tokyo’s Coffin‑Crew Lets You Screech, Not Suffer
Imagine being holed up in a coffin for a few minutes, surrounded by chainsaw‑swinging zombies, and hearing a spine‑chilling tale. That’s the bizarre, new escape from pandemic pressure that’s taking the streets of Tokyo by storm.
What’s the Deal?
- Time: Each fright-fest lasts a brisk 15 minutes.
- Price: Only 800 yen (~$11) per scream.
- Setting: A 2‑meter‑wide, windowed coffin‑box that sits in a quiet lounge typically used by late‑night bus passengers.
- What You’ll Feel: The wind, the creak of a chainsaw, actors in full horror gear, “fake hands” poking from the sides, and a sudden squirt of water to keep your heart racing.
The Brain Behind the Bones
Kenta Iwana, the 25‑year‑old mastermind from the production guild Kowagarasetai (also known as Scare Squad), says the concept was born from a need to give people a break from the relentless news cycle.
“The pandemic is stressing everyone out,” Iwana says. “We wanted a way for people to let out a big, cathartic scream in a safe, contained space.”
From Theme Parks to Coffins
When the usual gig spots—think amusement parks and event halls—went quiet, Iwana had to think on his feet. “We’re looking for venues that can transport our mobile scare setups,” he says. “Coffins are lightweight and easy to move; once you put them in a dark room, the whole package is ready to roll.”
Why People Are Joining the Fright‑Line-up
One rave review came from Kazushiro Hashiguchi, a 36‑year‑old shop owner who recently paid his ticket.
“All the events around here have been cancelled because of COVID,” Hashiguchi told us, “so I wanted something to calm my anxiety and release that tension. After the show, I feel more relaxed.”
Is This Just a Trend, or the Solution?
As Japan chats a new spike—over a thousand new infections this week—creative ways to cope are becoming increasingly vital. Takamiyama’s shock‑box might just be the continent’s quickest therapy for pandemic nerves.
Want the Latest on Japan’s Health Pulse?
Stay up to date with the COVID‑19 situation in Japan and keep your nerves in check. The Scare Squad shows are one of many unconventional methods people are turning to for mental relief.
