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Shoshazan Engyo-ji Temple Oni Chasing Ceremony

This event is held annually on January 18th at Shoshazan Engyo-ji Temple, which was featured as a location in the film, “The Last Samurai.” On the day of the ritual at Shoshazan Engyo-ji Temple, a blue demon, or “oni” (Ototen Goho Doji), who is said to be the incarnation of the fierce deity Fudo Myoo, and a red demon (Wakaten Goho Doji), who is said to be the incarnation of Bishamonten, another deity, perform dances to ward off evil spirits in this New Year’s tradition. Since this event used to be held all night, nowadays it’s held in the darkness with the door closed, relying only on candles and torch flames. The blue demon holds a sword with both hands, while the red demon carries a hammer with a jewel on its back, a bell in its right hand, and a torch in its left hand. These characters perform a dance to ward off evil spirits and pray for a bountiful harvest.