Mujina (貉)

Name Meaning

Overview

Mujina (貉) refers to a species of badger in Japan, but in folklore, they are mystical shapeshifters capable of taking on human form.

• Mujina = Old word for badger, sometimes also used for tanuki

Origin

• Rooted in Japanese folktales, especially from the Edo period.
• Closely associated with the story of the noppera-bō or faceless ghost.
• Often confused with tanuki and foxes, which also have shapeshifting lore.

Appearance

• In natural form: resembles a common badger.
• In transformed form: may appear as a person—often with no face.
• Sometimes depicted wearing traditional robes or appearing as a woman.

Behavior & Myths

• Known for transforming and playing tricks on travelers at night.
• Linked with eerie encounters involving faceless humans.
• In some regions, mujina are thought to mimic voices or cause confusion.

Symbolism

• Symbolizes trickery, illusion, and fear of the unknown.
• Used in folklore to explain mysterious or unsettling encounters.
• Reflects the belief that even the mundane world may hide supernatural truths.