is the Japanese word for
fox. Foxes are a common subject of
Japanese folklore; in English,
kitsune refers to them in this context. Stories depict them as intelligent beings and as possessing
magical abilities that increase with their age and wisdom. According to
Yokai folklore, all foxes have the ability to shape shift into
men or women. While some folktales speak of kitsune employing this ability to trick others—as foxes in folklore often do—other stories portray them as faithful guardians, friends, lovers, and wives.