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Handmade red Oni Ondeko mask, detailed painting and gold teeth, Dai Yokai

The Oni Ondeko Mask: a Demon That Actually Protects

On Sado Island, the Oni of the Ondeko is not a monster but a protector of the villages. History of the dance, its five styles, and my handmade mask from Brittany, inspired by a traditional model.

DAI YOKAI

1 day ago4 min read

Ukiyo-e print of a samurai surrendering his sword and leaving his clan in the rain, symbolizing his fall to rōnin status

Rōnin: What Happens When a Samurai Loses Everything

Rōnin (浪人): the true story of Japan's masterless samurai. The 47 Rōnin revenge, Musashi's 60 undefeated duels, and why the war mask was a wandering warrior's last identity. By Jérémy, Dai Yokai founder.

DAI YOKAI

6 days ago6 min read

Japanese print of Minamoto no Yoritomo, first Shogun of feudal Japan

What Was a Shōgun? Japan's 676-Year Military Dictatorship

Who was the Shogun really? Between military dictatorship and guardian of traditions, discover how these warriors ruled Japan for 676 years.

DAI YOKAI

6 days ago7 min read

Traditional tebori Japanese hand tattoo illustration by Kazuaki Horitomo

Tebori: how Japanese tattooing works without a machine (and why some people swear by it)

Tebori (手彫り) is the traditional Japanese hand-tattooing method: no machine, just bamboo and needles. Bokashi gradients, pain vs machine, cost, and how to find a real Horishi. By Jérémy, Dai Yokai founder.

DAI YOKAI

May 154 min read