Dear Diary, 

I know I’ve obsessed over ghosts enough on this trip, so I thought I would switch up my somewhat problematic folklore frenzy. 

Oni are towering figures with bulging muscles, skin that's either fiery red, deep blue, or sometimes even a sickly green. Oh, and let's not forget the horns – some have one, others have two, and a few are adorned with multiple horns that could put a reindeer to shame. Their hair is wild, like they've just walked out of a windstorm, and their eyes? Well, some legends say they have multiple eyes or extra fingers. If they were to step onto a modern runway, they'd be avant-garde couture personified. 

Now, personality-wise, Oni are a whole mood. Picture them as the mischievous troublemakers of the spirit world. They love a good prank, whether it's terrifying unsuspecting villagers or causing havoc just for the fun of it. But don't mistake their antics for mere malice; there's depth to these ogres. Some tales depict them as the guardians of hell, tasked with keeping the wicked souls in check. Others portray them as protectors against evil spirits, using their formidable strength to ward off anything that threatens the balance between the mortal realm and the supernatural.

What's even more fascinating is the role they play during certain Japanese festivals, like Setsubun. During this event, people throw roasted soybeans to drive away Oni and bring good luck for the coming year. It's like a nationwide game of "Get Out!" where everyone's in on the action, and the Oni play along, either fleeing from the beans or pretending to be scared, adding a playful twist to the festivities.

But here's where I'm really intrigued: the dichotomy of Oni. While they can be fearsome and intimidating, they're not purely evil. They have emotions, desires, and even vulnerabilities. Some stories delve into their softer side, showing them experiencing loneliness or longing for acceptance. 

Why do all these stories make me so sad AND so scared? 

Xoxo, 

Maria