Namahage@ Akita prefecture, Japan

Akita is the land of sake and rice with popular hot springs and traditional festivals.
It is the land of Namahage as well.
In Japanese folklore, Namahage are a troll type of demon with blue or red skin. During the new year, they get their kicks by terrorizing villages and carrying off young brides. The only way to appease them and send them on their merry way is giving them mochi rice cakes!
It is said that Namahage are messengers from the gods sent to scold us all into being good little boys and girls.