Kitsune in the literal sense is the Japanese word for fox. Foxes are a common subject of Japanese folklore. Stories depict legendary foxes as intelligent beings and as possessing paranormal abilities that increase with their age and wisdom. According to Y?kai folklore all foxes have the ability to shapeshift into human form. 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.
Foxes and humans lived close together in ancient Japan, this companionship gave rise to legends about the creatures. Kitsune have become closely associated with Inari a Shinto kami or spirit and serve as its messengers. This role has reinforced the fox's supernatural significance. The more tails a kitsune has – they may have as many as nine – the older wiser and more powerful it is. Because of their potential power and influence some people make sacrifices to them as to a deity.
Fox Spirits seductive sneaky and often treacherous are staples of modern manga anime and other forms of entertainment. Once upon a time fox spirits were considered protectors teachers providers and sponsors of the occult and alchemical arts. Even now some fox spirits are saintly and helpful. The foxes that serve as Inari's messengers are miracle workers understood as sacred and godly. Fox spirits may once have been a feature of pre-Buddhist East Asian shamanic religion. Fox spirits tend to be sexually assertive female spirits. As centuries passed and society became more conservative women were expected to be modest and subservient. Fox Spirits developed a bad reputation and became feared especially in Japan and Korea. Their reputation is somewhat milder in China although the same sexual associations exist.