Namahage

By Crusader1307

 A traditional Japanese legend (still referred to and performed in Kabuki), The Namahage are demons that are associated with certain New Years Eve customs. Also associated with The Oni (Demons as well), they were said to have released on Japan by China (in the 5th Century A.D.) The group of Nanahage took residence on various high mountains in Japan. Said to come to one's door , they seek evil and bad people to punish (steal their souls). Traditionally, local men will dress as Namahage and go from door to door on New Years Eve. This allows the occupants to rid themselves of all evil from the previous year (giving it to The Namahage). They beat ceremonial drums as a way of bringing forth one's problems - and use their frightful visage to scare it away!