One of the greatest and most sinister icons of Japanese folklore, the Oni can be translated as Demon, Devil, or Ogre; it used to be a general term for all types of Yokai and evil spirits.

When dealing with such a broad concept like devils and demons, it’s impossible to find a specific origin; however there are multiple influences found in Japanese, Chinese, and Buddhist texts.

Most of the stories about how these Yokai manifest into the world fall in two categories; they’re either the manifestation of people’s fears and negative emotions taken form, or if a person has lived a hateful or wicked life - they turn into an Oni while still alive.

They’re most often depicted as large, human- like figures with red skin, disheveled hair, and horns protruding from their head. A tiger pelt hangs around their waist, and spiked or studded bands are clasped around their wrists and ankles.

Depending on the regions specific folklore, the Oni either live in the depths of the Buddhist hells, or in dark caves deep within the mountains. They may travel into nearby villages in search of humans to devour. Carrying large metal clubs capable of bashing human bones to bits, making their victims perfect for a stew.

Like how many cultures have ways of fending off devils and demons, fear of Oni has lead to the development of many different traditions; the most well known being the Setsubun Festival, where they are actively banished from the home.

Then there is the concept of kimon - or “Oni gate”.

The Northeast direction is said to be unlucky, a place which misfortune and evil spirits come from. This direction is where Oni can enter your home to steal good luck, bringing misfortune and bad health. All doorways and openings facing this direction should be sealed and protected.

The folklore surrounding the Northeast direction plays as large part in the Oni’s appearance. When directed on the zodiac wheel, we see both the Tiger and the Ox - representing the pelt around the their waist, and the horns on their head.

Oni come in many different colors, but most commonly depicted in Red, Blue, Yellow, Green, and Black. Each of these colors represents a negative emotion- similar to of the western concept of the 7 Deadly Sins: Red (Greed), Green (Laziness), Blue (Anger), Black (Doubt), and Yellow (Regret).