Japan has a long history with masks. Since the past, the Japanese have used masks, their legends were represented by masks, and even today, the Japanese wear medical masks at the first sign of allergy or cold.
Most Japanese masks have their history, tradition, and are part of Japanese culture from the past to the present. Some are practical and others are merely decorative. In this article, we will talk about the famous Japanese masks.
We will start by presenting the main and most popular Japanese masks. Then we will see the more traditional masks that refer to legends, stories, spirits, and Japanese creatures.
Remember that in practically every matsuri (festival) in Japan, you will find shops selling masks of anime characters, animals, and mythical creatures. Most are made of plastic specifically for children.
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Table of Contents
The Masks of Tokusatsu
Since 1970, tokusatsu series like Ultraman and Kamen Rider have been gaining popularity in Japan, making it possible to find various masks of these heroes and villains, especially at festivals.
To learn more about Tokusatsu, we recommend reading our: Guide to Japanese Heroes
Menpo – The Samurai Mask
Samurais often wore masks in their battles, called menpō [面頬]. They were designed to protect the Samurai’s face and instill terror in the heart of the enemy.
Samurai masks were made by special craftsmen tailored to the personality and preferences of the samurai. Some had a demonic and frightening appearance, usually with mustaches, fangs, and a large nose.
They were generally made of iron and leather, with a small hole under the chin for sweat drainage. Others wore a menpo called Happuri, which covered only from the nose down, with a helmet that protected the rest.
Men – The Kendo Mask
Even practitioners of Kendo (the way of the sword) wear a protective helmet. This armor mask is called “men” and usually protects the entire face, throat, and shoulder. The name can also refer to a kendo strike to the head.
Animegao – Anime Masks
Animegao is a mask resembling characters from anime and manga, with large eyes. Unlike common cosplay, the face is actually a mask of the character.
Artists who wear these costumes and animated faces often call themselves kigurumi. Often, these outfits and masks can be used to entertain children and young people at certain events.
Oni Mask – Demon
Many Westerners translate the word “oni” as demon, but they are not always malevolent creatures. Oni is the Japanese word to refer to any supernatural creature, whether a demon or ogre.
Oni masks can be funny or scary, as many oni are just troublemakers. Rural Japanese festivals often involve locals wearing oni masks in a crazy street race.
Kitsune – Fox Mask
The word Kitsune [狐] means fox. According to Japanese traditions, foxes are messengers of the goddess Inari. It is common to find these masks for sale at festivals.
The gods appear as foxes in Japanese legends. Some even appear as beautiful women to deceive humans. Therefore, some anime characters wear a fox mask as an ornament.
Hyottoko and Okame Masks
Hyottoko is a mythical spirit represented by a mask. The stories related to Hyottoko vary widely by region. In some places, he was a boy with a funny face who produced gold from his belly button.
In all variations of the myth, Hyottoko is a spirit of luck with a funny face. Hyottoko plays a role in a series of traditional dances as a clown with silly steps.
Okame is the female version of Hyottoko. Both have funny faces and are often seen together as a pair. Okame is generally seen as a goddess who generously spreads fortune.
Hannya Mask
Hannya are female demons resembling oni, but with horns. Hannya masks are used in Noh theaters. They are usually portrayed as extremely fearsome and jealous characters. Noh theater also has several other masks besides the Hannya.
Tengu and Kappa Masks
Tengu [天狗] are fantastic creatures from Japanese folklore, a kind of elf whose legends have traits from both Buddhist and Shinto religions. They inhabit forests and mountains. The most striking physical feature of Tengu is their long noses.
Most of them also have beards. Some Tengus have bird heads; these were considered great martial artists. Tengu masks are used in a variety of festivals and are a popular ornament for decorating temples, businesses, and restaurants.
Kappa are river monsters that attack swimmers and enjoy challenging humans to Sumo. They are generally malevolent, but keep their promises.
What did you think of the article? Do you know other popular Japanese masks? We appreciate your comments and shares!
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