Japanese people’s Love For Cats
Have you ever noticed that Japan seems to really value cats in their pop culture and designs? While associating cats with Japan in some sense is a stereotype, there is a ring of truth to it. From Hello Kitty to Maneki Neko, Japan has made cat icons in many ways, representing different elements of Japanese culture.
Hello Kitty
Hello Kitty is loved and adored all over the world, but mostly in Japan. This adorable kitten represents pop culture in many ways, as she has become a billion-dollar business seen on clothes, toys, etc. While Hello Kitty was initially marketed towards little girls, she has spread to become a global icon with her own amusement park, movies, tv shows, and pretty much any product you can imagine. Especially as the kids that once love Hello Kitty grow to be adults, she continues to be embraced by all ages. Hello Kitty is just the tip of Japan’s cat obsession!
Japanese folklore
So, where does the obsession come from? Japanese folklore contains a lot of stories in which cats have played roles. Oftentimes, these cats have symbolized protective powers and good fortune. Additionally, the kawaii aesthetic has contributed to Japan’s love for cats. Kawaii embraces all things adorable, and cats definitely fit this description!
Maneki Neko
Maneki Neko is an important part of Japanese folklore as well. Maneki Neko, translating roughly to “beckoning cat,” comes from the story of a shopkeeper whose business was failing. Despite his tough situation, he takes in a stray cat starving outside his shop.The shopkeeper fed the cat, and after the cat would sit outside his shop from then on out, moving his little paw and beckoning in customers. Maneki Neko is seen as a symbol of good luck-whether it be for the
good fortune of business, a home, or a study space.
Many Shrines and Temples
Japan embraces these cute creatures and engrains them into culture in the best way. Many shrines and temples are dedicated to cats, such as Nambujinja and Konoshimajinja. Nekojinja, which literally means cat shrine- all which bring good luck and plentiful fortune. Japan’s obsession with cats is justified- how could they not be!
