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I was dancing around this one because it’s a fairly popular one. Then, I thought that it might only be common to me because I want a lot of anime and read a lot of manga. So, others might have never heard of the Bake-Danuki. We’re going to use the more common name of ‘Tanuki’, which is also what the Japanese call a raccoon dog. Adorable guy on the left, huh?
Bake-Danuki is translated to ‘transforming raccoon dog’, so it really is the true name of this creature. As you can tell, it is a raccoon dog that has gained the ability to change shape. The form of the Tanuki has changed to a bipedal, chubby animal that is usually wearing a straw hat and drinking sake/rice wine. They are also known to play the drums using their belly. The most distinct feature is its large scrotum, which can magically expand. Sometimes, these are depicted as so big that the Tanuki can put them over its shoulder or use them as a weapon, umbrella, and fishing net. This is primarily for artwork while stories focused more on their shapeshifting and belly drumming. It was mostly after the Edo period artwork that the scrotum got more attention . . . Can’t believe I had to write that sentence.
Behavior-wise, the Tanuki has changed from its earlier incarnation. Early on, it would take human form in order to steal, trick people, and even kill. As time went on, they were turned into tricksters that were innocent instead of malicious. The Tanuki would even be depicted as a humorous figure during the Edo period, which seems to be where a lot of changes in the mythos occurred. Today, you may see Tanuki statues on properties since they are symbols of prosperity and good luck.
The powers of a Tanuki revolve around shapeshifting and illusions. They enjoy taking human form in order to pull pranks. Supposedly, their favorite trick was to turn into a government official and start harassing someone at home for tax money. That or accuse them of a crime for chuckles. It was hard to discern if it was a Tanuki too. They slightly glow when they transform, which you can’t see during the day. If it is raining, their clothes would remain dry. Finally, losing focus would result in their fluffy tail popping out and revealing their true nature.
Tanukis can also change into objects. They can change into trees, rocks, lanterns, and just about anything. In fact, another favorite prank is changing into a moon when the moon is already out. This would make a person think they are going crazy. This goes along with them making noises to trick people at night. Sadly, there are tales of this backfiring on Tanuki after Japan opened to the West. Trains began running along single tracks, so these creatures started imitating the whistle. A train would stop, wait, and nothing would happen. Eventually, the conductor would ignore the noise and continue going. The next morning, they’d find a dead Tanuki on the tracks.
There is so much on Tanukis that I don’t think I can jam it all in here. You have many stories to choose from. So, I’d say take a look around and see what they’re all about.
