Oni (folklore) facts for kids
An Oni (pronounced OH-nee) is a fascinating creature from Japanese folklore. Imagine a giant, scary monster that looks a bit like an ogre or a troll. They are often shown with sharp claws, wild hair, and two long horns growing from their heads. Oni usually have red or blue skin and wear a simple loincloth made of tiger or jaguar skin. They are known for being very strong and sometimes quite frightening!
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What Are Oni?
Oni are a type of yōkai, which are supernatural beings or spirits in Japanese stories. They are often seen as evil or mischievous, but sometimes they can be good. In many tales, Oni are powerful beings who cause trouble or test heroes.
How Oni Look
Oni are usually huge and muscular. Their skin can be many colors, but red and blue are the most common. They have sharp teeth, sometimes even fangs, and wild, messy hair. The two horns on their heads are a key feature. They often carry a big iron club called a kanabō. This club is a symbol of their strength and how tough they are.
Oni in Japanese Culture
Oni appear in many parts of Japanese life, from ancient stories to modern cartoons. They are often used to represent danger or bad luck. However, they can also be symbols of protection. For example, some buildings have special roof tiles called onigawara that look like Oni faces. These are meant to scare away evil spirits.
Oni and Festivals
One important festival where Oni play a role is Setsubun, also known as the Bean-Throwing Festival. This happens in early February. During Setsubun, people throw roasted soybeans to chase away evil spirits and Oni. They shout, "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" which means "Oni out! Good luck in!" Sometimes, someone will dress up as an Oni, and others will throw beans at them. It's a fun way to welcome good fortune for the year!
Oni in Stories and Art
You can find Oni in many old Japanese folktales. They often live in mountains or hidden places. In some stories, they are defeated by brave heroes. In others, they might even learn a lesson and change their ways. Oni are also popular characters in Japanese art, plays, and even modern video games and anime.
More Pictures
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This oni (ogre) tramples a hapless villain in Beppu, Oita, Oita Prefecture, a famous onsen hot springs resort on the island of Kyushu in Japan.
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Onigawara on the roof of Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music.
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Oni in pilgrim's clothing. Tokugawa period. Hanging scroll, ink and color on paper. 59.2 by 22.1 centimetres (23.3 in × 8.7 in)
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Depiction of an oni chanting a Buddhist prayer. The oni (ogre or demon) is dressed in the robes of a wandering Buddhist priest. He carries a gong, a striker, and a hogacho (Buddhist subscription list). By Kawanabe Kyōsai, 1864.
See also
In Spanish: Oni (folclore japonés) para niños
