horror

5 of the Creepiest School Ghost Stories in Asia

Nadya Sharfina · June 13, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"Asian countries, known for their rich traditional cultures, have diverse folklore that often evolves into spooky urban legends, especially in school settings."

Asian countries are renowned for their rich traditional cultures, each brimming with unique stories that reflect their history and values. These tales vary from country to country, offering a diverse tapestry of folklore that has been passed down through generations. Over time, some of these stories turn into scary urban legends, often with spooky elements. Schools, in particular, serve as a common setting for these chilling tales.

The Ghost of Little Girl in Japanese School

One of the most famous urban legends in Japan is that of Hanako-san, the spirit of a young girl who haunts the bathrooms of elementary schools. The tale of Hanako-san has become deeply ingrained in Japanese school culture. The story varies slightly depending on the region, but the essence remains the same: Hanako-san is a ghost who resides in the third stall of the girl’s bathroom on the third floor of the school building.

The origin of Hanako-san’s haunting is mysterious with several versions. Some say she was killed during a World War II air raid while hiding in a school bathroom. Others suggest she took her own life due to bullying or was murdered by a parent or stranger.

According to urban legend, those brave enough to seek out Hanako-san must follow a specific ritual. To summon her, one must go to the third stall in the girls’ bathroom on the third floor and ask, “Are you there, Hanako-san?” If the spirit is present, she will respond with “I’m here,” and the ghost of a young girl with bobbed hair and a red skirt will appear.

The ritual has become a popular schoolyard dare, where students test their courage by summoning the ghost. The legend of Hanako-san remains a captivating and spine-chilling aspect of Japanese urban legends. Even in pop culture, you can encounter Hanako-san stories in manga and other media.

The Ghost of the Faceless Girl at the University of Hong Kong

Close to the Chinese University of Hong Kong, near a train station, a chilling story has persisted for decades. This is the legend of the ghost of a braided girl, whose tragic tale has become an eerie part of local folklore.

In the 1960s, a young girl from mainland China attempted to smuggle herself into Hong Kong to be with her lover. During this time, it was common for people to hide in trains carrying cattle, hoping to jump off unnoticed once they reached their destination.

According to the legend, the girl was caught by a conductor and tried to escape by jumping from a moving train. Tragically, her long braids got caught in the train door or possibly the tracks as she fell. In the horrific accident, her braids were torn from her scalp, disfiguring her face and leading to her death.

Her horrifying demise quickly turned her story into an urban legend. Many believe that her faceless long braided hair spirit haunts the road that runs alongside the Chinese University of Hong Kong. It is said that she preys on young men who walk alone, forever searching for her long lost lover.

The Dutch Lady at the Indonesian School’s Window

In Bandung, Indonesia, there is a popular ghost story that has been passed down through generations. The setting for this eerie tale is the renowned High School 5, a place known not just for its academic achievements but also for its haunting past. The school’s building, a relic of Dutch colonial architecture, adds an air of mystique and history to the chilling legend.

The ghost in question is named Nancy, a Dutch lady who is said to have been beautiful. Many believe she was a victim of a brutal murder, which has left her spirit restless and bound to the school. This tragic backstory has only fueled the fear and fascination surrounding her ghostly appearances.

High School 5 has three windows that are famously never closed. According to the legend, if someone walks around the school building three times, Nancy will appear in one of these windows.

Many people also claim to have seen Nancy on the stairs near the school hall. Witnesses describe her with blood running from her mouth, a gruesome sight that reinforces her tragic story and the violence of her death. These sightings have cemented her status as one of Bandung’s most enduring and frightening ghost stories.

School Turned Torture Prison in Cambodia

In Phnom Penh, Cambodia, the Tuol Svay Pray High School once stood as a place of learning and growth. However, in 1976, the Khmer Rouge regime transformed this high school into something far more sinister. Renamed S-21, it became a secret prison where torture, interrogation, and execution were routine. Check out ‘The Dark Legacy of Pol Pot’s Terror Reign.’

The Khmer Rouge sought to eliminate the educated and elite of Cambodian society. Professionals, teachers, doctors, artisans, military members, and anyone associated with the previous government were targeted. Even those speaking foreign languages or simply wearing glasses were deemed intellectuals and labelled as traitors, along with their families.

Tragically, out of the 14,000 people known to have entered S-21, only seven survived. The Khmer Rouge meticulously documented their atrocities, photographing each prisoner before and sometimes after they were tortured. These records were meant to detail the regime’s actions, but they ultimately became evidence of their brutality.

The Khmer Rouge did not have enough time to destroy all the records before the Vietnamese Army arrived. As a result, nearly 6,000 photographs of victims were preserved. These images, along with the harrowing history of the building, contribute to a deeply haunting atmosphere that pervades every corner and wall of the former school.

Today, the building stands as the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Locals often say it’s haunted, with reports of rattling shackles and echoing screams from its former prison room. Many staff, especially those on night shifts, say they’ve seen a dark figure near the toilets.

A Ritual Against Evil Spirits in an Indian School

In 2014, a significant event took place at an upper primary government school in the Tonk district of India. Almost 300 people gathered to perform religious ceremonies aimed at ridding the school of evil spirits. This mass exorcism was prompted by a frightening incident where three children fainted during school hours after reportedly seeing a ghost.

The ghost was said to be that of a young girl who attempted to push the children towards a toilet, causing widespread panic. Following this incident, nearly 170 students stopped attending classes for five days, driven by fear of further supernatural occurrences.

One of the villagers, participating in the religious rituals, allegedly became possessed by the spirit of the local deity, Tejaji. Tejaji is revered in the region as a protective god and is often invoked for safeguarding the community against evil forces. During the possession, Tejaji conveyed that the community needed to perform a puja ceremony at the school temple every two months to keep it free from spirits. Puja, a ritualistic prayer ceremony in Hinduism, involves offerings to deities to seek their blessings and protection.

Tejaji explained that the ghostly sighting had occurred because it had been more than two months since the last puja was performed. This revelation led the villagers to commit to regular puja ceremonies, hoping to ensure the safety and peace of the school environment.

This incident underscores the deep-rooted beliefs in supernatural influences within some communities and the lengths to which people will go to protect their children and maintain harmony. The regular performance of puja ceremonies at the school now serves as a preventive measure against any future supernatural disturbances, blending tradition and education in a culturally significant way.

For more horror stories, check out 8 Ghost Stories That Haunt Singapore Schools and Uncover the Top 8 Haunted Locations in Singapore.

Uncover the Top 8 Haunted Locations in Singapore

Nadya Sharfina · May 9, 2024 · Leave a Comment

"Discover Singapore's hidden mysteries: amidst the city's modernity lie eerie locales steeped in legend and history, inviting you to uncover their secrets."

Within the bustling modernity of Singapore lie pockets of mystery and intrigue. Despite its cosmopolitan facade, the city harbors eerie locales steeped in history and legend. Abandoned buildings, former war sites, and secluded forests hold stories that captivate both locals and tourists alike. These haunted places offer a fascinating glimpse into Singapore’s lesser-known past.

As you explore, tales of restless spirits and unexplained phenomena will draw you in. Each haunted spot carries its own unique history, inviting the brave to uncover its secrets. Join us as we unveil the top eight haunted locations, each with its own tale to tell and mysteries to unravel.

1. Syonan Jinja

Syonan Jinja, once a revered Shinto shrine, stands as a silent witness to Singapore’s horrific World War II past under Japanese occupation. Constructed during this time period, it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the difficulties faced. Despite its historical significance, the shrine is now tucked away almost out of sight in the jungle.

Local legends speak of Japanese soldiers’ spirits still lingering in the forest, adding an eerie atmosphere to the site. Tales of the fabled Yamashita Gold buried nearby continue to lure treasure hunters, despite the risks of getting lost in the labyrinthine trails.

While the shrine’s allure is undeniable, caution is advised for those venturing into the woods. The tranquil beauty of nature belies the potential dangers lurking within, highlighting the intriguing blend of reverence and risk that defines Syonan Jinja’s haunting presence.

2. Old Changi Hospital

This old building was constructed in 1935 as part of a military base. It has a sad history from the time of the Japanese Occupation when it was used as a prison for more than 50,000 war captives. People say the building is haunted by the past. There are stories of strange sounds like cries and moans, and sightings of shadowy figures. Some say there’s a hidden torture chamber used by the Japanese Secret Police. These stories make the building seem mysterious and spooky.

Since it was left empty in 1997, the building has become a symbol of its own history. It looks worn down now, and groups of teenagers have been caught trespassing for many years. Although you can no longer go inside because it has been closed off you can still view it fairly easily from the roads and paths surrounding it.

3. Haw Par Villa

Once called Tiger Balm Gardens, the Haw Par Villa invites you to explore its diverse collection of statues, each telling stories from Chinese legends and folklore. Walking through this place, you’ll step into a world where strange and marvelous sculptures stand side by side.

Hidden among these curious creations is the Ten Courts of Hell, a chilling display showing the consequences of one’s actions in the afterlife. It’s a graphic depiction of torture and punishment, serving as a stark warning of the consequences of wrongdoing.

Legend has it that the villa holds a dark secret. There are whispers about its connection to the gates of hell, fueled by stories of strange events that happen after sunset. Even the security guards talk about eerie happenings they can’t explain.

Some people believe the statues aren’t just sculptures—they think they’re real people turned to wax. As night falls, the air supposedly fills with the screams of the damned, scaring away people from getting too close.

4. Woodleigh MRT

Sitting atop the former Bidadari Cemetery, Woodleigh MRT station tells a story of urban renewal. Despite starting construction in 2003, the station remained empty until its opening in 2011, sparking rumors of unrest amongst the departed.

According to legend, the spirits of Bidadari Cemetery were disturbed by the station’s construction, and commuters passing by reported seeing ghostly white figures near the closed station, hinting at lingering discontent.

Once part of Singapore’s largest burial ground, the area now occupied by Woodleigh MRT station witnessed the relocation of over 147,000 graves to make room for development. It’s a solemn reminder of time’s passage and the city-state’s evolving landscape.

While the station now buzzes with activity, some still feel the presence of the past. For them, the spirits of Woodleigh MRT station serve as a reminder of the balance between progress and respect for history.

5. Siglap Estate

In the midst of Singapore’s urban sprawl lies Siglap Estate, its name hinting at mystery with its Malay translation, the “dark one.” Back in the 1950s, when Siglap was just a kampong, tales of the supernatural filled the air. Locals whispered about the pontianak, a malevolent spirit said to lurk in the shadows.

These spooky stories made their way to the big screen with the 1957 film “Pontianak,” shot in the rustic setting of the kampong, forever linking Siglap to its eerie reputation. Even today, sightings of the pontianak continue, keeping the estate’s spectral legacy alive.

Siglap however, holds more than just ghost stories. Beneath its peaceful exterior lies the Valley of Death, where over 40 mass war graves bear witness to the horrors of World War II. Japanese soldiers massacred civilians here, leaving behind a legacy of tragedy etched into the community’s memory.

The supernatural ties of Siglap go deeper yet. In Kubur Kassim Cemetery, there are graves dedicated to the orang bunian, elf-like beings from folklore who are said to have connections with humans, even intermarrying with them. It’s a testament to Siglap’s rich blend of legend and lore.

6. Amber Beacon Tower

The Amber Beacon Tower, a landmark in East Coast Park, is known as one of Singapore’s top haunted spots. Legend has it that a chilling incident unfolded here back in 1990. A young couple, out for a night of fun, suddenly found themselves under attack at the tower.

A 21-year-old woman and her 22-year-old companion were enjoying the evening when two mysterious figures ascended the tower. Without warning, they launched a vicious assault on the couple. The woman fell victim to a fatal stab to the neck, while the man wounded but alive, fled to seek aid, leaving his companion behind on the ground. Despite investigations, the case remains unsolved.

Since then, visitors have reported seeing bloodstains, a ghostly woman in white, and hearing eerie cries around the tower at night. It’s become a chilling reminder of the mysterious and unexplained.

7. Woodneuk House

Istana Woodneuk, an abandoned palace located near the Singapore Botanic Gardens, was once a grand structure in Tyersall Park. It was rebuilt in 1935 but suffered adevastating fire in 2006, rendering it beyond repair. The land it sits on belongs to the State of Johor, and it’s not accessible to the public. Even though it’s not on most maps, its grounds are marked as “Permanently closed” on Google Maps.

It’s often mistaken for Istana Tyersall, which had red roof tiles, unlike Istana Woodneuk’s blue tiles. The government bought Tyersall Park in 1990, but it remained closed to the public, falling into disrepair and becoming overgrown with vegetation. It became a hotspot for ghost hunters and photographers due to its inaccessible nature.

In 2006, a fire, reportedly started by drug addicts, destroyed Istana Woodneuk, leaving it structurally unsound. Police cordoned off the forest path leading to it in 2015, and in 2016, warning signs were placed to deter trespassers.

8. Marsiling Bunkers

Deep within the Marsiling forest lie the eerie remains of the Marsiling Bunkers. Remnants of Singapore’s wartime history, these bunkers now carry stories of strange occurrences.

Some claim to have seen mysterious faces and heard unexplained sounds within the bunker’s depths, adding to its otherworldly aura. Despite its haunted reputation, the derelict bunker attracts the curious and adventurous, though the rugged terrain and real dangers like massive lizards and deep waters serve as deterrents.

Historically, the tunnels and bunker were used as an oil reserve station by the British, later expanded by the Japanese during their occupation. Speculations suggest it may have been used as a torture chamber, with rumors of an underground passage leading to a former mental hospital nearby.

Abandoned and overgrown by the jungle, the site remained hidden until the early 2000s when a tunnel leading to the bunker was discovered. Today, it’s a haunting reminder of a turbulent past, intertwined with nature’s reclaiming embrace.

For more horror stories, check out 8 Ghost Stories That Haunt Singapore Schools and 5 of the Creepiest School Ghost Stories in Asia.

9 Ghost Stories That Haunt Singapore Schools

Nadya Sharfina · May 31, 2023 · Leave a Comment

"Many schools appear to have a fascinating and haunted past that still captures our imagination."

Years after students have left school, you will still hear them discussing one aspect of their teenage lives with great intensity and conviction. In Singapore’s schools, there are spooky stories and supernatural experiences that give people goosebumps for life. Many schools appear to have a fascinating and haunted past that still captures our imagination. Within their walls, ghostly figures appear, strange sounds echo, and eerie encounters unfold, creating a collection of ghost stories deeply woven into the culture of Singapore schools. These supernatural tales have been passed down through generations, whispered among students and teachers.

Let’s explore the supernatural realm together and discover eight of the scariest ghost stories that have become a part of the shared folklore that thrives within Singapore’s schools.

1. The Ghost of Old Admiralty Secondary School

Old Admiralty Secondary School, which closed in 1994, is known as one of the most haunted schools in Singapore. According to legend, the spirit of a deceased student still haunts the empty halls. Visitors have reported hearing footsteps and whispers with no visible source. Some even claim to have seen objects move on their own, creating a chilling atmosphere linked to the school’s ghostly history.

2. The Haunted Classroom at CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls’ School

CHIJ St. Nicholas Girls’ School has a classroom with an eerie reputation. Many students have seen a ghostly figure sitting at one of the desks, even when no one else is present. The room carries an unsettling presence, and some students have heard strange laughter coming from nowhere, sparking curiosity and unease about the supernatural happenings in that classroom.

3. The Mysterious Piano at Victoria School

Photo by Christian GAFENESCH on Unsplash

At Victoria School, there is a captivating story about a mysterious music room. According to the tale, a former music teacher who loved playing the piano has left behind a supernatural presence. When night falls, the music room comes alive with an eerie enchantment as the piano starts playing by itself. The haunting melody echoes through the corridors, mesmerising those who listen and leaving them with a lingering sense of the supernatural.

4. The Crying Child of Nan Chiau High School

Nan Chiau High School has the haunting legend of a ghostly child’s sorrowful cries. Students and teachers have heard the heartbreaking sobs in the school’s quiet corridors. The unexplained weeping creates an eerie and sombre atmosphere as it echoes through the hallways. Even though the ghostly child’s origins are unclear, those who hear its eerie screams are left feeling both sympathetic and uneasy. Harry Potter’s ‘Moaning Myrtle’ definitely comes to mind…

5. The Headless Statue at Raffles Institution

Raffles Institution, a school with a rich history, has a spooky story about a haunted statue. The statue of Sir Stamford Raffles, an important figure from Singapore’s history, is said to sometimes appear without a head at night. The sight of the headless statue terrifies those who see it, leaving them wondering about the mysterious haunting.

6. The Haunted Lake and Labyrinth of Chung Cheng High School

There are some fairly creepy stories going around at Chung Cheng High School. According to some, it is haunted by the spirits of Japanese soldiers. The school has a big lake. Legend has it that if you walk around it three times and ring a nearby bell three times, a creepy mermaid might pop up from the water.

Inside the school’s auditorium, a labyrinthine network of interconnected doors and winding passages exists. According to local legend, these rooms may have had a dark background, possibly serving as torture chambers in the past.

7. The Moving Mannequin at Paya Lebar Methodist Girls’ School

At some point in the past, a mannequin was placed in the classroom to remember a girl after she died by suicide. The mannequin wore her uniform and had her name tag. The classroom was located on the ground floor and faced the track and field. Students noticed something peculiar during their physical education classes – the mannequin always seemed to be facing them, despite its original positioning towards the front of the class.

8. The “White House” of Montfort Secondary School

The “White House,” a historic structure that houses the school and is located in Hougang, is rumoured to be haunted. Students and workers who have been inside the structure have claimed to have heard eerie footsteps, strange noises, and seen apparitions. Some speculate that the ghostly presence may be connected to the school’s past or prior residents.

9. The Haunting of Katie from St. Margaret’s

At St. Margaret’s Secondary School, one ghost story has continued to unsettle students over the years. It centres around an old photo of a girl named “Katie,” which was once displayed outside the school hall. According to the story, Katie was a former student who tragically took her own life. What made the photo even more disturbing was that the closer you looked at her face, the blurrier it appeared.

Adding to the mystery, a poker card signed “Katie” used to be pasted high up on the canteen wall. The card always showed the number 4, and the signature never moved—but students claimed the pattern and colour of the card would change from time to time, even though no one had touched it. Since the ceiling was very high, it only added to the eerie feeling.

For more horror stories, check out 5 of the Creepiest School Ghost Stories in Asia and Uncover the Top 8 Haunted Locations in Singapore.