Ichimon Japan 01: What's the deal with cat girls? (About nekomimi)

This is episode 1 of the latest podcast by Japankyo: Ichimon Japan. Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss future episodes.

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Today's Question

On this episode of chimon Japan we ask: What's the deal with catgirls?

Topics Discussed

• The history and origins of the trope of the catgirl
• What nekomimi (猫耳) means
• The existence of "catboys" (male nekomimi characters)
• Yōkai reminiscent of catgirls such as bakeneko nd nekomata
• The depiction of bakeneko women in Edo era ukiyo-e woodblock prints
• The supposed connection between catgirls and Osamu Tezuka's amanga Ribon no Kishi (Princess Knight)
• The 1978 manga Wata no Kunihoshi (The Star of Cotton land) by Yumiko Oshimaand its role in popularizing the trope of the catgirl in manga and anime
• The character of Felicia from the Darkstalkers franchise
• A list of some of the most popular catgirls in Japan in recent years
• Whether catgirls have night vision
• Whether catgirls use litter boxes
• Whether catgirls have four ears or two ears
• Whether cats with human ears are as cute as girls with cat ears
• The Japanese title of Josie and the Pussycats
• And more!

We Want Your Questions

Is there something about Japan that confuses you? Is there something about Japanese culture that you would like to learn more about? Is there something in Japanese history that you would like us to explain? We're always looking for new questions about Japan to answer, so if you have one, please send it to ichimon@japankyo.com.

Special Thanks

Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Fiverr)

Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R.

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Full Show Notes

• https://www.japankyo.com