also: ぎゅうき
ushi-oni; ox-headed monster
A mythical creature from Japanese folklore, often depicted with an ox's head and a demon-like body. Appears in local legends, particularly in western Japan.
The ushi-oni is a monster that appears in the legends of Wakayama Prefecture.
At the festival, a large papier-mâché ushi-oni parades through the streets.
Standard kanji spelling; reading うしおに is the most common.
Alternate reading, less common; may appear in some regional or historical contexts.
Compound of 牛 (ushi, 'ox') and 鬼 (oni, 'demon'). The exact origin of the legend is uncertain, but it is deeply rooted in regional folklore.