Take a walk around Tokyo, and you'll see cat faces on every product imaginable.
Hello Kitty, arguably Japan's most famous export, is only the tip of the iceberg. I've tried on bowler hats with pointy ears, visited kitty petting zoos, and eaten Cheshire cat pizza at theme restaurants.
Why the obsession?
In Japanese folklore, cats have protective powers and symbolize good fortune. A bobtail supposedly lured a feudal lord with a "come hither" gesture, which saved him from being struck by lightning. Today, business owners put "maneki neko" (beckoning cat) statues in front of their shops, in hope that the moving paw will bring in customers.
Or perhaps there's a simpler explanation: cats are cute, and easy to depict in the round, simplified "kawaii" design favored by Harajuku girls. Personally, I find it hard to resist buying anything decorated with whiskers and a tail.
An inflatable "maneki neko" stands in front of a pachinko gambling parlor, left paw raised to bring windfall.
The karaoke sign welcomes all customers, even those who screech out of key.
From birth, the Japanese are introduced to Hello Kitty and friends.
See the rest of the story at Business Insider