Oni Everywhere

Although it wouldn't be too odd to see a depiction of the Christian devil at Halloween, on a brand of alcohol, or a spicy hot sauce in the United States, you certainly won't find giant devil heads or demon displays at the local grocery store or 7Eleven.  Were such a display as the one above be put in a US grocery store Christian groups would quickly condemn the store and protest.  In Japan however Oni can be found on most anything.  Although usually depicted as being red and possessing horns, oni are more ogres than anything demonic in the Christian sense and their use in imagery and folklore has changed over time.  While once feared ogres with large clubs that attacked villages or travelers, it is not unusual to see an oni lead a parade to ward off evil spirits today.  Oni are also often depicted as being comical in that they are not always very bright.  Even "cute" versions can be found on various store products.  Although the traditional side sometimes comes out as is the case in early February when dried beans are thrown about in parades, shrines, and although not much any more a person's home.  Guides on how to through the beans and locate the correct direction to ward off Oni were posted in my local grocery store.  I bought some of the beans, but got hungry before going to a temple and ate them.  Tasty.