Japanese mythology

Japanese mythology is widely known throughout the furry fandom via the popularity of manga and animé. Boasting over 8 million different gods, the mythology is a complex interweaving of Shinto, Buddhist and agricultural folk beliefs. The various animal spirits, known as Yōkai, from the mythos particularly lend themselves to furry art and characters.

Popular species include: More obscure, but appropriate, species also include:
 * Tanuki (raccoons)
 * Kitsune (foxes)
 * Bakeneko and nekomata (cats)
 * Ōkami (wolves)
 * Inugami (dogs)
 * Tengu (birds)
 * Hebi (snakes)
 * Mujina (badgers)
 * Tsuchigumo (giant spiders)
 * Houkou (five-tailed dogs)
 * Kamaitachi (sickle-wielding weasels)
 * Kappa (water-dwelling creatures with turtle-like shells)