Photos | Images of Japan: Tanuki figures, Tanukidani, Kyoto, Japan

Tanuki (狸) is commonly translated as "raccoon dog" in English and is a common animal in Japanese folklore. Ceramic statues of tanuki can be found outside restaurants, especially soba restaurants with a large straw hat, a big belly and comically large testicles. Tanukidani Fudoin (狸谷不動院) is a large temple in the mountains of Kyoto famous for its car blessing ceremonies and a fire festival held in July, where a large bonfire of pine branches is prepared and lit then devotees walk over the hot embers.

Jake Davies

previous Japan image I next Japan image

Japan Images: Tanuki Figures Tanukidani Kyoto