1.
fox
A wild canine with a bushy tail, pointed ears, and reddish-brown fur. Foxes have deep significance in Japanese folklore as shapeshifters and messengers of Inari.
狐 refers to foxes.
Common expressions
- 狐うどん (udon with sweet fried tofu - tofu is said to be foxes' favorite food)
- 狐の嫁入り (sun shower - "fox's wedding")
- 狐につままれる (to be bewildered, as if bewitched by a fox)
- 狐と狸の化かし合い (battle of wits; literally foxes and tanuki trying to outwit each other)
Counter: 匹
Cultural note
In Japanese folklore, 狐 are believed to be messengers of 稲荷 (the god of rice/prosperity). They can transform into humans and may be benevolent or mischievous. The red gates (鳥居) at Inari shrines, like Fushimi Inari in Kyoto, are guarded by fox statues.