Kitsune

Kitsune (狐, キツネ) is the Japanese word for "Fox". Foxes are a common theme in Japanese folklore, the word kitsune being used here in that context. The stories depict them as intelligent beings with magical abilities that increase with their age and wisdom. According to yokai folklore, all foxes have the ability to change into human form. Although some popular legends speak of kitsune using this ability to deceive others - all foxes in folklore often do -, other stories present them as faithful guardians, friends, lovers and wives.