Kaibyo: The Supernatural Cats of Japan

Beware the housebound kitty-cat.

Japanese lore tells us that if you keep a cat as a pet for too long, its tail will split, it will begin walking on its hind legs, and that beloved kitty may just hunt you down. Japanese mythology teems with tales of supernatural cats, which have in turn inspired generations of artists.

Beautifully illustrated and meticulously researched, folklore expert Zack Davisson illuminates the vast realm of legendary cats, celebrating both their eerie and endearing sides. Kaibyo explores how these mysterious felines became enduring symbols of luck, protection, and uncanny power through vivid storytelling and rich cultural context. Lushly illustrated in full color with dozens of ukiyo-e and drawings, Kaibyo: The Supernatural Cats of Japan is a must-have book for the Japanophile and cat-lover alike!

75 illustrations