While the connection between Japanese folklore and the fox dates back to ancient times, it’s thought that the earliest reports of the trickster fox, which would become known as Kitsune, began in the 8th Century.
Classification: Divine & Demonic Forces
Temporal Range: 8th Century to the present
Geographic Range: Japan
Diet: Unknown
While the connection between Japanese folklore and the fox dates back to ancient times, it’s thought that the earliest reports of the trickster fox, which would become known as Kitsune, began in the 8th Century. The details seem to have changed over time, to the creature we recognize today as the intelligent nine-tailed fox, Kitsune.
Extremely clever and possessing various supernatural powers, Kitsune are incredibly difficult to age. Some can even be over 1,000 years old, becoming more powerful with age. Their trickster nature is evident in their ability to shapeshift, often transforming into an elderly human to better conceal their true identity.
Throughout history, the perception of Kitsune has varied depending on the era, sometimes seen as a trickster, sometimes as a bringer of luck, and sometimes even as a god. Because of the lack of clarity on the subject, we’d like to take this opportunity to remind you that no matter what you think, the Kitsune is guaranteed to be smarter than you are, so don’t try to outwit it.
