Stuff To Blow Your Mind From the Vault: Kaibyō: The Strange Cats of Japan, Part 1
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Oct 5, 2024 Dive into the fascinating world of Kaibyō, Japan's supernatural cats steeped in rich folklore! Discover the intriguing blend of mythology and reality surrounding unique breeds like the bobtail and Nekomata. Learn how these mystical felines shape cultural beliefs, embodying both protectors and harbingers of misfortune. Explore whimsical cat behaviors and their representation in modern pop culture. Plus, uncover the eerie charm of figures like the Bakuneko and their connections to storytelling and horror films!
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Cats as Supernatural Beings
- Japanese folklore presents cats as supernatural beings with diverse terrifying or helpful traits.
- These tales reflect cultural attitudes toward cats beyond their domestic roles.
Cats Arrived Via Silk Road
- Cats arrived in Japan around the 6th century CE along the Silk Road routes.
- They were both useful for pest control and valued as entertaining companions in court and farming life.
Cats Gain Power with Age
- Cats, like fox spirits, were believed to acquire supernatural powers and multiple tails as they aged.
- Japanese folklore depicts older cats as shape-shifting and more dangerous entities called Kaibyo.