About
In a quiet residential area of Nezu, Bunkyo Ward, there is a discreetly standing staircase. Its name is “Obake Kaidan” (Ghost Stairs). At first glance, this staircase appears completely ordinary, but it is known for a mysterious rumor: the number of steps differs when going up and down. When ascending, there are 40 steps; when descending, there are 39. This strange phenomenon has piqued the curiosity of many people.
In the past, this staircase was narrow, surrounded by dense trees, and had a dim atmosphere even during the day. Because of this, locals began to call it “Obake Kaidan.” However, nowadays, the staircase has been widened, handrails have been installed, and it has been transformed into a bright and well-maintained set of stairs. Even so, its zigzag shape and structure, which prevents you from seeing the end, still leave a somewhat mysterious atmosphere.
There is actually a simple trick behind the mysterious difference in the number of steps. The lowest step is very shallow, so when going up, people count it as the first step, but when going down, it blends in with the ground and is unconsciously forgotten. This subtle difference creates the illusion that the number of steps is different when ascending and descending.
At the top of the stairs, a quiet residential area spreads out, and if you walk a little further, you will see the University of Tokyo’s Mukogaoka Faculty House. Surrounded by greenery, this building gives a sense of the fusion of history and modernity. At the bottom of the stairs is Nezu Shrine, famous for its azaleas, where in spring, colorful flowers delight the eyes of visitors.
These “Obake Stairs” are more than just a passageway. Why not experience a small mystery hidden in everyday life and spend an exciting moment in this place where history and the present intersect?