onizashi

Onizashi is a term sometimes used to refer to traditional Japanese tattooing, particularly those styles that feature demonic imagery or motifs associated with oni. Oni are supernatural beings from Japanese folklore, often depicted as ogres or demons with horns and fierce expressions. Tattoos featuring oni are popular in the irezumi tradition, the broader style of Japanese tattooing. These tattoos can symbolize strength, protection against evil, or a connection to a rebellious or defiant spirit. The artistry involved in onizashi often incorporates elaborate designs with bold lines, vibrant colors, and intricate details, showcasing the skill of the tattoo artist. These designs are not merely decorative but carry deep cultural and symbolic meanings, often related to Buddhist or Shinto beliefs, or personal narratives of the wearer. The practice of irezumi, including onizashi, has a long and complex history in Japan, evolving over centuries and sometimes facing periods of prohibition and acceptance.