Costumes and disguises have long been a part of Japanese culture, which makes it surprising that Halloween is just now gaining mass participation. In fact, ukiyo-e woodblock prints from the 1800s reveal that costumes were a very real part of many Japanese traditions. One example is this can be found in a piece by prominent ukiyo-e artist Hiroshige Utagawa depicting a summer moon festival. Painted between 1841 and 1842, the scene captures a vibrant procession of people. One individual in particular seems to be having way more fun than anyone else. Why? Because he’s dressed like an octopus.

Head to the link to Spoon & Tamago below for even more fascinating images from Japan's cosplaying past!