Read this book if you want to find out just how crazy Japan is about
cats.
In a country with millions of cat owners, it's not unusual to find
felines in coffee shops, hotel lobbies, and museums; being taken for
stroller rides; or even serving as train stationmasters. But how did
this cat mania start? Why does it continue to grow? And--are there
really Buddhist funeral services for cats?
In this lively, tip-to-tail cat compendium, Japanese culture maven
Manami Okazaki shares the weird and wonderful realities of Japan's cat
shrines, temples, and festivals; interviews toy artisans, fashion
designers, and even an architect; and looks at cat-centric social media,
manga, and mascots. From ubiquitous manekineko dolls and Doraemon
collectibles to Maro, a cosplaying internet celebrity, every aspect of
Japan's ongoing love affair with cats springs to life. Accompanied by
fun and adorable photographs, this pop culture book is the purrrfect
addition to any cat-lover's coffee table.