TOKYO — In a strikingly unique persona, Uketsu captures attention with his black bodysuit and white mask, conveying his thoughts through an electronically modulated, high-pitched voice, which enriches the eerie aura of his artistic endeavors. Known as Japan’s emerging YouTube sensation and a bestselling author, whose works remain shrouded in mystery, he is now set to make his mark on the international scene.
Uketsu, whose name translates to “rain hole,” finds resonance in the themes that his name evokes—a reflection of his affinity for the unsettling, which he describes as crucial to his popularity. During a press conference in Tokyo this past Thursday, he shared that it is his ability to evoke unease in his audience that has contributed to his success.
The release of his debut book, “Strange Pictures,” is taking place across 30 countries, including an English version in the United States this week. According to his publisher, the book has garnered impressive sales, moving 1.5 million copies worldwide.
Uketsu’s captivating narration intertwines images and diagrams with text, effectively drawing readers into a chilling mystery that unfolds layer by layer. The visuals serve not just as a storytelling tool but also as clues to gruesome and spine-chilling events, which adds a tangible element to the eerie narrative.
This innovative approach resonates particularly well with younger audiences, who are more attuned to manga, video games, and social media than traditional literature. Some children have even chosen to dress as Uketsu for Halloween, a testament to his broad influence.
Citing the renowned Japanese mystery author Ranpo Edogawa as a significant inspiration, Uketsu aims to make his work appealing even to those who are generally reluctant readers. He has effectively utilized his online platforms to cultivate and engage a substantial audience, amassing 1.7 million subscribers on YouTube, which has accumulated over 190 million views.
His breakout YouTube hit, “The Strange House,” explores a home featuring an unconventional floor plan, including a prison-like room, and was adapted into a film that earned over 5 billion yen (approximately $32 million) at the Japanese box office last year.
“My stories are just really scary,” Uketsu remarked, maintaining a humble demeanor despite his quirky appearance. He insists that behind his mask, he looks completely ordinary—so much so that he believes no one would recognize him if he decided to remove it.
Nevertheless, he acknowledges that his image does contribute to book sales, though he refrains from labeling it merely as a gimmick. Currently, Uketsu is working on his next publication and has also released a music track, as shared by Takuji Watanabe, the vice director at Futabasha Publishers, the company behind Uketsu’s works.
While specific financial details surrounding Uketsu’s earnings remain undisclosed, Watanabe asserts that he is a “once-in-a-century star” in the realm of Japanese horror literature.
