TheNarutoseries draws inspiration from several mythologies, incorporating references within its characters and abilities. Following a similar narrative, the Tailed Beasts have also been based on mythological beings from East Asian folklore, comprising several Japanese and Chinese references. Being a core aspect of theNarutoseries, it comes as no surprise that the author has embedded several hidden references behind their names and appearances, signifying their central role within the anime.
While fans might have been able to point out the mythologicalreferences of Shukaku and Kurama, other Tailed Beasts are rather difficult to decipher, especially considering their minimal screen time inShippuden. Despite the lack of attention, every single Tailed Beast has been designed based on specific mythical beings, adding an element of depth to the entire concept.
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One-Tail – Shukaku
One-Tail or Shukaku isbased on Japanese mythology, with its appearance and design pertaining to Bake-Danuki or Japanese Racoon Dogs. While the myth is based on an extinct species of Racoon Dogs, Bake-Danuki are supernatural creatures with shape-shifting powers.
The series reveals that Shukaku was initially trapped within a teapot by priests in the Hidden Sand Village. This references the story of a Tanuki that shape-shifts itself into a teapot.
Two-Tails – Matatabi
Matatabi may initially appear to be aTailed Beast based on regular cats. However, it’s actually inspired by a Japanese Yokai named Nekomata. Also known as Forked Cat Demon, Nekomata takes on the appearance of regular cats with a single tail.
Its true form is revealed when it transforms into a Yokai, with the tail splitting down the middle into two. Two-Tails’ reference arises from this very Yokai form of Nekomata.
Three-Tails – Isobu
Isobu is based on various mythological beings, ranging from spirit turtles to a shark-like demon. Being a tortoise, one likelyreference from Japanese mythosis that of Umibozu, a sea-spirit that is believed to have been sighted by many sailors along Japan’s coastlines.
Isobu’s name indicates a different folklore, a demon sea monster known as Isonade. With a mixture of various folklores, Isobu’s reference cannot be pinpointed to one single mythos.
Four-Tails – Son Goku
The name ‘Son Goku’ directly references the famed 16th century Chinese novel ‘Journey to the West.’ Sun Wukong or Monkey King are various monikers commonly associated with this character, and its references inmodern-day Chinese and Japanese mediaare quite vivid. Various video games also reference Son Goku, such asDota 2’sMonkey King andLeague of Legends’Wukong.
In theNarutoseries, Son Goku takes on the appearance of an ape, a reflection of the Chinese mythos used as its inspiration. Another reference, albeit less likely, is that of Satori, a monkey-like Yokai in Japanese mythology.
Five-Tails – Kokuo
Kokuo has a unique design, based on two different mythological beings. Its inspiration can be traced to the horse demon Sagari and the ominous ghost whale Bake Kujira. Sagari only posses a head that resembles a horse’s head, and Five-Tails’ designs reflects this aspect with only the face resembling a horse.
Five-Tails’ name translates to ‘respectful king’ in Japanese, referencing the famed legend of King Mu of Zhou. King Mu ruled China duringthe Zhou Dynasty’s reign, and myths refer to him as the King who dreamed of attaining immortality.
Six-Tails – Saiken
The Tailed Beast Saiken is a gigantic slug with six tails protruding from its back. Its mythological roots can be found in Chinese folklore, with stories of a snail-like demon called Sazae-Oni. These creatures are also known to be shape-shifting demons, usually taking on the form of beautiful women to entice sailors, similar to Sirens.
Seven-Tails – Chomei
Chomei’s appearance makes it an obvious rendition of rhinoceros beetles. These beetles are known to be quite strong, at least in relation to their own mass. However, the name Chomei references a 12th century Chinese poet who denounced his previous life to pursue a life of seclusion.
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Known as Kamo no Chomei, most of his poetic work was tied with nature and seclusion. Rhinoceros Beetles are also known to hide under logs and vegetation during the day in an attempt to isolate themselves from predators.
Eight-Tails – Gyuki
Gyuki is directly referenced from the Yokai Ushi-Oni, a massive sea monster that is known for attacking beaches. Gyuki is an alternate pronunciation of Ushi-Oni, meaningthe Tailed Beat Eight-Tailsis directly based on this monster. Since Ushi-Oni possess an ox head yet are known as sea monsters, Eight-Tails’ lower body is similar to an octopus, with each tail representing an octopus leg.
Nine-Tails – Kuruma
Being the titular character’s Tailed Beast, Kuruma’s mythological roots were naturally bound to be quite significant. Nine-Tails is based on aJapanese Yokai called Kitsune, which normally take the form of a fox demon. Kitsune are known to be wise beings, with each additional tail signifying wisdom and knowledge.
The name Kuruma is based on a mountain in Japan with a similar name, known as the home of Sojobo, the god of a crow-like mythical race called Tengu. This location also records the first instance of Reiki, the art of using Chakra to heal others. This is accurately reflected in Kuruma’s ability to empower other shinobi with his Chakra.
