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HENGE (Shape Shifters)
Animals that can transform themselves into humans or other entities -- for either benevolent or malevolent purposes -- are called henge in Japan. In folklore, the Kitsune and Tanuki are masters of transformation, as is the Tengu, the bird-man goblin of mountain forests. Some say the fox (kitsune) and tanuki (racoon-like dog) are manifestations of the powerful Tengu (bird-man), who is worshipped as the slayer of vanity and pride. Click any image below to learn more.
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FOX (Kitsune).
Able to transform into human shape (typically that of a bewitching woman), and to hear and see all secrets of humankind, the fox is Inari's messenger.
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TANUKI.
Can transform into any living or inanimate shape, but often assumes the form of a monk or a tea kettle to play tricks on people. In legends, the Tanuki can cast powerful illusions -- they can turn leaves into fake money or horse excrement into a delicious-looking dinner.
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TENGU.
Mountain and forest goblins with both Shinto and Buddhist attributes. Their supernatural powers include shape-shifting into human or animal forms, the ability to speak to humans without moving their mouth, the magic of moving instantly from place to place without using their wings, and the sorcery to appear uninvited in the dreams of the living.
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