Tanuki

are Japanese racoon dogs. In Japanese folklore, Tanuki are considered the rivals of kitsune. They are masters of disguise. The only known Tanuki from the series is Miroku's friend and assistant Hachiemon. He can shapeshift by placing a leaf on top of his head.

Trivia

 * A recurring gag throughout the series is that the kitsune Shippō is constantly being mistaken for a tanuki.