Oni

Meaning: Good, Evil, Protectors, Tricksters, Demons

Oni are primarily male but can be female as well. They are often paired with dragons that they ride, as well as snakes they conjure or that live within them. They are shapeshifters and often assume the form of young women to disarm or take advantage of men. They are primarily represented in Red, Yellow or Blue. The word Oni can be used as a general term for most demons, orcs and trolls and many gods also have the appearance of Oni. Unlike the Hannya which is specifically female, Oni are usually depicted with hair on their faces and jowls.

They are considered in Japan to principally reside in hell. However, Oni can also be found in the human world. They prefer robbing and capturing young women for their tender flesh. They also have a love of sake. Oni are known for being evil but some are seen as good and protectors. There are stories of monks becoming Oni when they die to protect their temples.

Oni mask tattoos in Japan are extremely common and refer to a belief in the spirit world where demons punish the unjust and evil.