By creating an account, you acknowledge that PBS may share your information with our member stations and our respective service providers, and that you have read and understand the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Become a NMPBS member to enjoy
NMPBS
Passport
Get extended access to 1600+ episodes, binge watch your favorite shows, and stream anytime - online
or in the PBS app.
Fire Cat or Fire Cart? The History of Japan’s Kasha
Season 3 Episode 11 | 12m 48s
Swooping down from the heavens on a fire ball, the Kasha drags the bodies of the dead to the underworld for a life of damnation. Most frequently depicted as a demonic, flaming cat, the kanji for ‘Kasha’ actually translates to “Fire Cart". This episode explores the religious and artistic history of the Kasha and takes a look at the significant role of cats in Japanese culture.