It’s no secret Japan loves its cats and there's no better way to celebrate them than giving the feisty felines their own festival. This Neko Matsuri, or Cat Festival, is held twice a year in Yushima, a sleepy town near Kanda known for its old-school charm and humble mom-and-pop stores.
At the Cat Festival, running from February 11 to March 1, cat-lovers can purchase special cat-related goods from zakka (lifestyle) shops and feast on cat-shaped dessert. On Saturdays, shrine-goers can receive a special cat stamp from Tsumagoi Shrine. Cat owners should participate in the photo contest – the winning pictures will be featured in the next festival’s posters and maps.
The festival will culminate on Saturday February 22 at the cat craft festival, where local vendors sell handmade crafts for cats and humans, alongside workshops and performances.