Land of the Rising Cat: Japan's Feline Fascination

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.

MANAMI OKAZAKI has published ten books on Japanese culture, art, crafts, and fashion, including Kimono Now and Kawaii! Japan's Culture of Cute (both by Prestel). Her journalism has been featured in the Japan Times, Wall Street Journal, South China Morning Post, Lonely Planet, and other global media outlets. She lives in Japan.