Japan has a rich and diverse collection of special animals that are deeply ingrained in its culture and mythology. These include the fox or "kitsune," which is revered for its intelligence and magical powers, the wolf or "okami," which is revered as a symbol of strength and protection, the tanuki or raccoon dog, which is often depicted as a mischievous creature with the ability to shape-shift and create illusions, and the crane, which is often depicted in art and literature as a symbol of longevity and good fortune. Other special animals in Japanese culture include the koi fish, cat or "neko," samurai's horse, giant hornet, snow monkey or "macaque," and sea turtle.