Namahage in traditional Japanese folklore is a demonlike being, portrayed by men wearing hefty ogre mask and straw capes during a New Year’s ritual of Akita prefecture.

Namahage L.A. (photo in left) was founded by Jimmy Pearly Staley and Robin Lynn in Los Angeles. After Jimmy’s grandmother Akiko passed away, he felt a great need to reconnect with his Japanese heritage.

His partner, Robin, a history major and costume designer, was more than happy to research and create costumes based on various Japanese folklore.

Namahage L.A. will appear at the Oshogatsu event in Little Tokyo on Jan. 1, from 11 am to 2 pm.

Facebook: Namahage LA