Dressed in costumes made of straw or coloured paper, their faces hidden by masks depicting animals, monsters or flowers, some bearing giant wings, the yokaï (spectres) and other oni (monsters) are ancient figures that continue to feature in rites and festivals in rural Japan. The series by photographer Charles Fréger captures these astonishing characters across the changing seasons. Investing the walls of the Eglise des Trinitaires, the images reflect the sub-theme ‘Monsters & Co.’ at the Rencontres d’Arles 2016. Co-curated by Reiko Setsuda (curator of Le Forum, Tokyo), the show is Fréger’s second outing at the Arles international photography festival, confirming his growing reputation. On coloured walls, a map of Japan accompanies eighty carefully staged portraits of these extraordinary costumed creatures – a fascinating inventory of an ancient but living Japanese tradition. Children can explore the theme of masks through a range of fun activities in a dedicated interpretive space. The exhibition is accompanied by a catalogue, from Actes Sud. Charles Freger images: (top) ONEONDE NO ODORIKO, Aritate, Fukuejima, Nagasaki Prefecture. Courtesy of the artist.  (lower) NAMAHAGE, Ashizawa, Oga, Akita prefecture. Courtesy of the artist.