historycoolkids on Instagram: "In some areas of Japan, they installed special signs that warn that cats may jump out suddenly.Cats first arrived in Japan around t…"
In some areas of Japan, they installed special signs that warn that cats may jump out suddenly.Cats first arrived in Japan around the 6th century, likely brought from China or Korea by Buddhist monks to protect temple scrolls from mice. Over time, they became symbols of both good fortune and mystery. In Edo-period folklore, cats were often portrayed as supernatural beings (bakeneko or nekomata) creatures capable of shapeshifting and even avenging mistreatment. Yet they were also cherished as domestic companions, their graceful movements and aloof charm celebrated in art and poetry.In the modern era, this affection has evolved into something close to cultural devotion. The maneki-neko, or “beckoning cat,” is a ubiquitous talisman of luck, found in homes, restaurants, and shops. Contemporary Japan is also home to cat cafés, “cat islands” such as Aoshima and Tashirojima, and an abundance of cat-themed merchandise and mascots.