The Yakuza: Secret Societies

With its origins in the Samurai culture of 17th century Japan, the Yakuza are one of the most infamous, secret and feared secret societies. In this episode of the Forbidden History podcast, we investigate just how the Yakuza operate today...

Cast List:
Jake Adelstein: Journalist & Author
Hiroki Allen: Security Consultant
Robert Whiting: Author, Tokyo Underworld
Horiryu: Tattoo Artist
Shintaro Hayashi: Prosthetic Finger Specialist
Shoko Tendo: Daughter of Yakuza Boss
Manabu Miyazaki: Ex-Yakuza Member
Eric Meyers: Narrator
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Forbidden History

Forbidden History is a documentary podcast series which explores the past’s darkest corners, sheds light on the lives of intriguing individuals, and uncovers the truth buried deep in history’s most controversial legacies. Each episode will delve into the history archives to reveal new perspectives on familiar stories.

For advertising enquiries, email [email protected]

• No. of episodes: 155
• Latest episode: 2025-09-02
• Society & Culture History Documentary

Where can you listen?