Japan has no shortage of superstitious symbols. Like in other cultures, residents have traditionally attributed mythical qualities to various animals and their representations. Maneki neko, beckoning cat statuettes, attract customers to businesses and provide shop owners good luck. Foxes, on the other hand, are a common subject of folklore. They are considered intelligent and to have supernatural powers, as well as a mischievous streak.

Raccoon dogs, tanuki, boast a similar mythological status. These nocturnal animals are often depicted as shapeshifters with a tendency to bewitch and confuse travelers.

Readers familiar with Mario 3 likely understand this. Although Japanese raccoon dog mythos is unique to the island country, creator Shigeru Miyamoto took a risk and referenced it in the classic video game. When equipped, raccoon dog suits give Mario the ability to shapeshift and thereby confuse and evade enemies. Miyamoto's gamble paid off, helping spread raccoon dog symbolism beyond the borders of Japan.

Bewitched by a Raccoon Dog

While raccoon dogs are often tricksters in Japanese literature, they have a benevolent streak. Manga artist Tomo Nagawa (@nagawatomo) leverages this trait in several of her pieces featuring run-ins between raccoon dogs and human protagonists. In a recent post, Nagawa tells the story of a host who has a bewitching experience on his way home from work.

Fortunately, the host learned his lesson and returned to his body. Nevertheless, he probably won't live down the experience any time soon.

Fans enjoyed Nagawa’s piece. They commented:

If you enjoyed this manga, you can find more like it by following Tomo Nagawa on Twitter.