Have you ever heard of “Kuzunoha”? She’s one of Japan’s most famous fox spirits, known for her beauty, intelligence, and a deeply emotional story. Her tale is not only a touching legend, but also intricately connected to the legendary onmyoji (master of divination) Abe no Seimei. Even in modern times, Kuzunoha appears as a guardian spirit in the popular action RPG game Nioh 2, further captivating audiences around the world.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the story of Kuzunoha, her connection to Abe no Seimei, and how she’s portrayed in Nioh 2.
The Tale of Kuzunoha
Today we will learn about Kuzunoha.
A Fateful Encounter
The story of Kuzunoha begins with Abe no Seimei’s father, Abe no Yasuna, and a fox he saves in the woods. Yasuna, who was praying daily at the Kuzunoha Inari Shrine in Shinoda no mori (Shinoda forest) to restore his family’s honor, one day rescues a white fox being pursued by hunters. However, he is gravely injured in the process and collapses.
In gratitude, the fox transforms into a beautiful woman named Kuzunoha, tending to Yasuna’s wounds and escorting him home. This fateful meeting blossoms into love, and the two eventually marry, giving birth to a child named Dōjimaru.
The Revelation of Her True Form
Years later, when Dōjimaru turns seven, Kuzunoha’s true identity as a fox is discovered. Cornered, Kuzunoha tearfully confesses the truth to Yasuna and her son:
“I am the fox you saved that day. I came to repay your kindness but ended up finding happiness beyond my dreams. However, now that my true form has been revealed, I must leave.”
Before disappearing into the forest, she leaves behind a heartfelt poem:
“If you miss me, come seek me out
In Shinoda no mori (Shinoda Forest) in Izumi Province,
Where the bitter leaves of Kuzunoha grow.”
A Heartbreaking Farewell
Yasuna and Dōjimaru chase after Kuzunoha into the depths of Shinoda Forest. There, they encounter a fox, whom they realize is Kuzunoha. Yasuna begs her to return to her human form. Kuzunoha transforms back into a woman one last time, entrusting them with a box and a crystal as tokens of gratitude and farewell. She then reverts to her fox form and disappears into the forest.
This poignant tale, filled with themes of love, gratitude, and sacrifice, has resonated with audiences for centuries.
Kuzunoha’s Connection to Abe no Seimei
Kuzunoha’s story is deeply tied to Abe no Seimei, as her son Dōjimaru is none other than the legendary onmyoji himself. By linking Seimei’s extraordinary abilities to his fox heritage, the tale emphasizes the supernatural origins of his genius. This connection elevates the story of Kuzunoha from a simple fox legend to an integral part of Japan’s cultural history.
Now I know the reason why Kuzunoha appears with Abe no Seimei in the game Nioh2.
About Abe no Seimei, you can read the detail in the article below.
Kuzunoha in Nioh 2
In Nioh 2, Kuzunoha appears as a guardian spirit, showcasing her mystical allure and power. Her design blends the elegance of her fox form with a mysterious, ethereal beauty. Players who equip Kuzunoha gain enhanced fire-element abilities and special combat skills, making her a valuable ally in the game.
By incorporating Kuzunoha, Nioh 2 introduces players to a piece of Japanese folklore, sparking curiosity about traditional legends and their cultural significance.
Conclusion
The story of Kuzunoha is a timeless tale of love, gratitude, and the bittersweet nature of parting. As the mother of Abe no Seimei, her legend plays a crucial role in Japanese folklore and history. Traditional storytelling or modern portrayals like Nioh 2, Kuzunoha continues to enchant audiences.
If this tale piqued your interest, why not explore more about Japanese folklore and its fascinating characters? Through stories like Kuzunoha’s, you can gain deeper insight into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
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