The Lantern Fox of Mount Kogane

In the misty hills of Mount Kogane, nestled deep within a bamboo forest, there was a quiet village known as Hanamura. The villagers believed the mountain was protected by a mystical being known as the Lantern Fox—a spirit that wandered the woods at night, carrying a glowing red lantern to guide lost travelers and scare away evil.

But no one had ever seen this fox. Some said it was just a story told to keep children from wandering too far into the forest. Others left rice cakes and incense at the edge of the woods during the festival of Obon, hoping the Lantern Fox would bless their families.

One stormy night, a curious and kind-hearted girl named Aiko got lost in the forest while searching for her younger brother’s pet sparrow. The rain was heavy, thunder rumbled, and the forest seemed darker than ever. Cold and afraid, Aiko cried under a tree, calling out for help.

Suddenly, through the thick fog, a warm red light appeared. It swayed gently in the air, growing brighter with each step. Aiko looked up and saw a white fox with nine bushy tails, holding a lantern in its mouth. Its golden eyes glowed softly.

The fox didn’t speak, but it nodded for her to follow.

Without fear, Aiko followed the Lantern Fox through the twisting bamboo paths. The fox led her across bridges, around hidden ponds, and past trees that whispered ancient songs. Finally, they reached the edge of the forest where the village lights shimmered in the distance.

Aiko turned to thank the fox—but it had vanished. In its place was a small paper lantern glowing gently, with her name written on it in elegant brush strokes.

From that day on, villagers claimed to see a red lantern weaving through the trees during storms or moonless nights. And whenever someone was lost, they would whisper, “The Lantern Fox will find you.”