Tanuki

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Tanuki
Name
Japanese	狸
Rōmaji	Tanuki
Additional Information
Primary Abilities	Shapeshifting
Located in	Japan

Tanuki (狸 Tanuki), also known as raccoon dogs, are a breed of transforming Yōkai. The most famous tanuki group in the series is the 808 Tanuki from Shikoku led by Gyōbu-Danuki.

Description

Tanuki are anthropomorhic raccon dogs, standing on their hind legs. They normally have brown fur of varying shades, triangular ears, puffy tails that may have stripes, snouts with brown noses and whiskers.

Legend

The term "Tanuki" may refer to raccoon dog native to Japan. Depending on the region and dialect, the Mujina, which usually refers to either badger or raccoon dog, may be referred to as a Tanuki, and vice versa.

Like the Mujina, Itachi (weasels), and the Kitsune, the Tanuki are masterful shapeshifters, able to disguise themselves as whatever they please. They're often referred to as Bake-danuki (化け狸, Monster Tanukk) or Henge-danuki (変化狸, Transforming Tanuki) in myths and legends, and are sometimes depicted with large scrotums, symbolizing good luck. Newer depictions of the Tanuki show the creature with a straw hat, a bottle of sake, and a promissory note (IOU), and statues of the yōkai are often found in bars and gardens.

History

The Great Yōkai War: Guardians: Side Story: Heian Hyakkitan

A legion of tanuki led by Dansaburō-Danuki appeared in the final battle along with numberous kitsune to fight against a great threat and to avenge for Gyōbu-Danuki.

List of Tanuki

808 Tanuki

Main article: 808 Tanuki

Ashi-Magari

Main article: Ashi-Magari

Bake-Danuki

Main article: Bake-Danuki

Fukuro-Sage

Main article: Fukuro-Sage

Mame-Danuki

Main article: Mame-Danuki

Takekiri-Danuki

Main article: Takekiri-Danuki

Tanuki

Main article: Tanuki (Kappa no Sanpei)

Tanuki-Bayashi

Main article: Tanuki-Bayashi