What is a Kitsune?

Kitsune is the Japanese word for fox ( 狐 ), but in English, the word "kitsune" refers to the mythical foxes of Japanese folklore. They are depicted as being intelligent and their magical ability increases with their age/wisdom. Kitsune are able to transform into human beings and often use this ability to cause mischief.


Because of their magical properties, they are seen as minor deities and people often make offerings to them or carve stone statues of them to keep away evil spirits. 

This is an old ink painting of a kitsune, originating from Japan. Traditional calligraphy brushes were used to create this picture.