狐kitsune
Quick definition:Kitsune is the Japanese word for fox, and in folklore it refers to magical foxes that can change shape, often taking human form and sometimes serving as messengers of a shrine god.
Meaning
Kitsune means fox, and in Japanese folklore the animal is believed to be clever and magical. Stories describe foxes that gain more tails as they grow older and more powerful, up to nine, and that can take the form of people, often beautiful women or old men. Foxes may be tricksters who fool travellers, or loyal helpers who protect families.
Kitsune also have a religious side. Foxes are linked to Inari, a deity of rice, harvests and prosperity, and fox statues stand at many Inari shrines across Japan. Some are seen as divine messengers, and visitors may leave small offerings of fried tofu, a food associated with the animal.
Anime and manga use kitsune widely, in characters with fox ears and tails, fox spirits that guard shrines and nine-tailed monsters. The nine-tailed fox is one of the best known, shown as wise in some stories and as dangerous in others.
Origin:Kitsune is an old Japanese word for fox, and the animal has appeared in the country's stories for many centuries. The belief in magical foxes is partly Japanese and partly shaped by fox legends from China, so folklorists describe the tradition as a blend instead of pointing to a single source.
Example:In Naruto, a nine-tailed fox is sealed inside the young hero, giving him enormous power while making him an outcast. The fearsome creature gradually becomes an unlikely partner. Many other series show fox spirits as shrine guardians, mischievous companions or characters who hide their ears and tails under a human disguise.
Did you know?The fox's fondness for fried tofu gave its name to a noodle dish. Kitsune udon is a bowl of thick wheat noodles topped with sweet fried tofu, and it is served in restaurants across Japan.
