Inspired by an early morning visit to an atmospherically misty fox shrine at the base of a mountain in Kyoto. In Japanese folklore a sunshower, is also known as a foxes wedding, 'kitsune no yomeiri’, as it is believed that magical foxes cause the rain to hide their wedding procession from nosy people.

Kitsune, foxes, are practiced shape-shifters and are known for their mischivious nature, however, here at the Fushimi Inari Taisba they are reveared as loyal servants of Inari, the Shinto diety of rice and harvest. Regardless if they are mischivious or loyal, they will rub shoulders to enjoy a wedding procession, as will other Yokai, everybody comes out to enjoy the occasion.

Illustration by Nanami Takeuchi | @nanasometimesdraws

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