THE LEGEND OF SHUTEN DOJI

By Strictly Tattoo on Dec 03 2035

SHUTEN DOJI: THE DRUNKEN DEMON OF JAPANESE MYTHOLOGY

In the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore, few tales are as haunting and captivating as that of Shuten Doji, the infamous Drunken Demon. This legendary figure, a symbol of chaos and terror, is both feared and revered for his dark deeds and the story of his eventual downfall.

According to legend, Shuten Doji was no ordinary demon. Towering in size with a fiery aura, he was known for his insatiable appetite for both food and drink—especially sake, earning him the title "Drunken Demon." Hidden deep within the misty mountains of Mount Oe, he ruled over a fortress where terror reigned supreme.

WHO WAS SHUTEN DOJI?

The name Shuten Doji, meaning ‘Sake-Drinking Boy,’ sparks intrigue. According to legend, he was once a human—possibly an abandoned child—whose remarkable strength and unusual appearance marked him as different. Over time, this boy evolved into one of Japanese folklore’s most fearsome oni (demons), a transformation that intertwines awe with terror. His story speaks of a descent from misunderstood orphan to a monstrous warlord who haunted ancient Kyoto.

THE TALE UNFOLDS

Shuten Doji’s tragic path to demonhood began with his rejection by society. Shunned for his earthly abilities and striking features, he sought refuge in the remote mountains of Tanba. There, he gathered a band of felow outcasts, gradualy turning them into demons under his command. Together, they unleashed a reign of terror, abducting young women and feasting upon human flesh, instiling dread throughout the imperial capital.

In desperation, the emperor caled upon the legendary warrior Minamoto no Yorimitsu, better known as Raiko, to confront the demon. Disguised as wandering monks, Raiko and his loyal companions ascended Mt. Oe. Armed with cunning strategy and enchanted sake laced with a sleeping potion, they prepared to take on the powerful Shuten Doji

THE DEFINING BATTLE

As Shuten Doji succumbed to the potion, Raiko and his men revealed their true identities and launched their attack. They decapitated the demon in a dramatic battle, yet even in death, his severed head retained its power, attempting to strike back—a chiling testament to his unyielding spirit.

The Winter ‘War’ Release represents months of hard work and dedication by the Strictly team and all three Lighthouse artists.

Creating this collection has been an incredible and intense journey. From the initial concept meetings to the final touches, every step was delicately placed to ensure the collection embodies the artists’ vision and attention to their craft.

BEYOND THE LEGEND

What makes the story of Shuten Doji relevant today is not merely its thriling twists but the deeper themes it explores. It is a tale of transformation, the cost of societal exclusion, and the blurred boundaries between humanity and monstrosity. These concepts and themes resonate with the ethos of Strictly, where we champion the misfit, celebrate the rebel, and reimagine the narratives of the misunderstood into bold, wearable art

Filmed and Edited By Strictly Dec 03 2025

IN THE FABRIC OF OUR CREATIONS

Our latest colection, inspired by the legend of Shuten Doji, intertwines his tale with the striking aesthetics of contemporary streetwear. Each garment is a canvas, teling the story of defiance, resilience, and reinvention. It empowers those who wear it to embrace and celebrate their individuality with pride.

Choosing from this colection means more than selecting a piece of clothing; it’s about carrying a piece of history, a legend that embodies the spirit of uniqueness and the artistry of Japanese tattoo culture. We aim for these designs to speak for you—boldly, unapologeticaly, and with the strength of a story that has stood the test of time.