狸 · tanuki · Japan

Tanuki

Tanuki are shape-shifting creatures often portrayed as jolly tricksters. Famed for their playful nature, they can transform into various objects and beings, using their powers to deceive or help people. They are also associated with prosperity and good fortune.

Legend

One popular tale involves a tanuki that transformed itself into a teahouse, tricking weary travelers into believing it was a real establishment before revealing its true form and laughing at their confusion.