The Namahage ritual is practiced in Oga City, Akita Prefecture, Japan. On New Year's Eve, a group of 2 or 3 village youths disguised as a demon-like creature, the Namahage, dance through the village in masks and straw raincoats, brandishing fake knives. They visit each house at night and shout phrases like, "Any children crying?" or "Any children disobeying their parents?" The "demon" are then received by the head of family, who offers sake and rice cakes. The demon then blesses the family and leaves.
This event is derived from the belief that a deity bringing good fortune makes a visit to the village from elsewhere in the New Year. It also has the added benefit of keeping naughty children in line.
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