Celestial kitsune are sometimes referred to as Inari foxes. Image: Fushimi Inari Fox by Hector Gutierrez

Do you love kitsune? So do we. The kitsune is a yōkai, a supernatural creature. This Japanese fox spirit is known for its mischievious behavior. Some kitsune are benevolent, while others act maliciously towards humans. All kitsune are secretive, so be careful not to stumble upon one. To read more about the kitsune, their abilities, and some of our favorite kitsune in popular American culture, read our Monster of the Week piece about these magical creatures.

If you think reading is so 18th century, then git yer learnin’ from this excellent video by Tofugu. We’re ever on the lookout for all things kitsune, and Tofugu has lots of great videos on Japanese culture, travel, and language. If you’re interested in Japan’s supernatural side, check out History of Kitsune Yokai: Many-Tailed Fox Demons! You’ll learn about the origins of the kitsune, their traits and abilities, and the kitsune in Japanese popular culture. You never know when you might come across a kitsune, so keep some abura-age on hand just in case.