Masks & Spirits

Oni Demon

Oni

Meaning & Symbolism

Supernatural power, punishment of the wicked, raw force. Oni are agents of divine punishment who torment sinners in hell, but can also be protectors.

The Story

Oni appear throughout Japanese folklore as fearsome ogre-like demons — red, blue, or green-skinned with horns, fangs, and tiger-skin loincloths, wielding iron clubs (kanabō). The Setsubun festival involves throwing beans to drive oni away. Shuten-doji, the most famous oni, was slain by Yorimitsu.

Traditional Placement

Back + GlutesFront Torso

Best Seasons

All Seasons

Compatible Motifs

Tiger

Tora

Shoki the Demon Queller

Shōki

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