The Tanuki: A Symbol of Prosperity and Good Luck

The tanuki, also known as the Japanese raccoon dog, is a mammal native to Japan. It is a member of the Canidae family, which also includes dogs, wolves, and foxes, but it has distinct physical characteristics, such as a fluffy tail and a distinctive facial marking, that set it apart from other canids.

In Japanese folklore, the tanuki (also bake-danuki) is commonly portrayed as mischievous, fun-loving trickster and said to have the ability to shape-shift into various forms, such as humans, other animals, and even inanimate objects. Tanuki can also transform ordinary objects, such as leaves, into money to fool merchants in exchange for goods. They also cast illusions to play pranks on unsuspecting people to make them lose their way. Tanuki is usually depicted as having big belly and comically oversized scrotum which they can transform to serve any need. 

To spot a tanuki in human disguise, it is said that you need to look for their specific characteristics such as having round circle in the eyes, remaining dry in the rain, and their tail accidentally popping out when they lose focus.

In Japan, the tanuki is considered a symbol of prosperity and good luck. Ceramic statues of the tanuki, often holding a bottle of sake or a promissory note, are commonly placed outside houses and businesses as a talisman to attract wealth and success. The name "tanuki" can also be interpreted as "ta" (other) and "nuki" (omit), which can be understood to mean "removing all other things and leaving only what is desired." 

Today, the modern times depiction of Tanuki has evolved to include the concept of the "Tanuki Eight Virtues" which are eight specific characteristics that are said to represent different qualities. These are:

(Photo by Emily Nguyen)

1. A smiling face, which represents friendliness.
2. A sake flask, which represents virtue.
3. A straw hat to protect against trouble or disaster.
4. A notebook of promises, which represents honesty and trustworthiness.
5. Big eyes for keen observation to make good decisions.
6. Big tail for steadiness and strength.
7. Big belly, which represents boldness.
8. Oversized scrotum, which represents good fortune and financial success.