In Japanese folklore, a kitsune is a fox spirit believed to gain more tails as it grows older and wiser.
Kitsune are supernatural foxes in Japanese tradition, where they can transform, speak, possess unusual knowledge, and sometimes interact with human communities. Foxes are especially associated with Inari, a major kami connected with rice, prosperity, and commerce, although shrine fox statues are generally understood as messengers rather than Inari itself.
The most powerful legendary foxes are described as having nine tails. The idea of increasing tails reflects age, magical ability, and accumulated wisdom. Stories can portray kitsune as benevolent protectors, mischievous shapeshifters, or dangerous beings.
Kitsune should not be confused with tanuki, the supernatural raccoon dog, or bakeneko, the transformed cat. Modern fiction often blends these traditions, but classical stories contain many different regional portrayals.