Name Meaning
Kuda-gitsune (管狐) means “tube fox,” referring to its small size—small enough to fit inside a bamboo tube.
- Kuda (管) = tube
- Gitsune (狐) = fox
Origin
- Associated with secretive mountain sorcerers known as kitsune-tsukai or fox-users.
- Popular in the Tōhoku region and parts of central Japan.
- Linked to ancient spirit-possession beliefs.
Appearance
- Described as a miniature fox, mouse-like in size and often invisible to the untrained eye.
- Said to travel through bamboo tubes or pouches.
- May appear only to its master or during rituals.
Behavior & Myths
- Used for spying, causing illness, or manipulating people.
- Believed to multiply quickly and bring wealth—at a spiritual cost.
- May possess people or curse enemies if misused.
Symbolism
- Symbol of forbidden knowledge and occult power.
- Represents both wealth and spiritual burden in folk tales.
- Feared as a sign of sorcery and taboo practices.
