When you interact with a lantern, it can trigger a Kitsunebi squad encounter. Until that encounter has been completed, another lantern cannot be activated. Sometimes, if a lantern is used in a small or enclosed area, the squad may not appear right away because it needs space nearby to spawn. If this happens, move to a larger street or open area and the squad should appear so you can defeat it. You may also notice Cherry Blossom petals in the area, which indicate that a squad encounter is still waiting to spawn or be completed.