Tradition: Japanese Mythology
Alternative Names: Ten, Japanese Marten, Weasel
Category: Marten
The Myth
Itachi are supernatural weasels known for their trickery, strange magic, and ability to transform into other beings. They resemble ordinary Japanese weasels but are feared as ill omens, particularly in mountainous regions. Their cries are considered a warning of approaching misfortune, and hearing a group of itachi yelping is believed to be followed by despair and disaster. Although they generally avoid direct contact with humans, they sometimes stand upright on their hind legs to bewitch people, hypnotizing them into leaving food or performing tasks for their benefit.
Itachi possess a remarkable range of supernatural abilities and are considered among the most accomplished shape-shifters in Japanese mythology. A traditional saying declares that foxes have seven transformations, tanuki have eight, and itachi have nine. They often disguise themselves as young priests wearing oversized robes, a form they use to obtain alcohol, which they cannot brew themselves. They may also imitate other supernatural creatures to frighten people, especially the enormous Ōnyūdō, a bald-headed giant said to destroy houses, devour livestock, and even eat humans.
Their magic can become especially dangerous when they gather in groups. Itachi are said to climb onto one another’s shoulders to form enormous columns of fire that erupt into swirling whirlwinds. These supernatural fires are blamed for devastating conflagrations capable of burning down entire towns. Their association with destruction, deception, and ill fortune has made them feared creatures, despite their generally shy nature.
Sources
“Itachi.” Yokai.com. https://yokai.com/itachi/