Kitsune (Fox)

Attributes: Trickster, Wisdom, Intelligence, Wit, Faithful, Feminine

Foxes are a common subject of Japanese folklore. Stories depect them as intelligent beings which possess paranormal abilities and wisdom that increase with their age. It is believed that when a fox becomes 100 years old they will grow an extra tail. Once they have reached 1000 years old they can have 9 tails. As their tails and age increase so to do their powers.

Kitsune are known as Yokai (ghosts or in this case spirits). They are known for their ability to take on human form, most often in the shape of beautiful young women, but they can also take the shape of men, young and old as well. In order to do this they must place reeds, a leaf or skull over their head.

In folklore Kitsune were often considered tricksters or witch animals, goblins not to be trusted. However, others portray them as faithful guardians, friends, lovers and companions. Zenko (good foxes) often called Inari Foxes are are benevolent, celestial foxes. Yako Foxes or Nogitsune are considered mischievous or even malicious.

Either way the Kitsune is one of the most popular tattoo images in Japanese Irezumi. They can be shown as full foxes, just the head or often symbolically with a theater mask. Considered to be a feminine power symbol on one hand and a trickster on the other. In this case it is all about perspective.