What is onryo?

Onryō (怨霊) are a type of vengeful ghost in Japanese folklore, typically female, who are driven by a powerful grudge (怨み, urami) and seek revenge on those who wronged them in life. They are a staple of Japanese horror and often appear in literature, theater, and film.

• Origins: Onryō are often created when someone experiences a traumatic death, especially if it's unjust or violent. The strength of their grudge and desire for revenge fuels their spectral form.

• Appearance: While not always the case, Onryō are frequently depicted with long, disheveled black hair covering their face. They are often dressed in white burial kimonos, signifying their status as the dead.

• Powers and Abilities: Onryō possess a range of supernatural abilities, including:

  • Curses: They can inflict curses on individuals, families, or even entire locations.
  • Possession: They may possess living beings to carry out their revenge.
  • Telekinesis: Onryō can manipulate objects with their minds.
  • Shapeshifting: Some Onryō can alter their appearance to deceive or terrify their victims.
  • Creating Illusions: They might create illusions to disorient or frighten their targets.

• Motivations: The primary motivation of an Onryō is to exact vengeance on those responsible for their suffering. This can involve targeting specific individuals or causing widespread chaos and destruction.

• Appeasement: Appeasing an Onryō is often difficult, but it is sometimes possible through rituals, offerings, or by righting the wrongs that led to their creation. This may involve acknowledging their suffering and making amends for the actions that caused their death. A Buddhist%20ceremony or exorcism may be needed.

• Notable Examples: Famous examples of Onryō in Japanese media include:

  • Oiwa from Yotsuya Kaidan (the most famous ghost story in Japan)
  • Sadako Yamamura from Ringu (The Ring)
  • Kayako Saeki from Ju-On (The Grudge)