Nekomata (猫又)

About this Yokai

Nekomata (猫又) is a domestic cat that, after living for many years, transforms into a supernatural being.

A signature trait of the Nekomata is its tail, which splits into two as it ages. These Yokai are often depicted standing on two legs and dancing, or even playing the shamisen (a traditional lute). Because shamisens were historically made from cat skin, Edo-period art often portrayed Nekomata playing the instrument as a dark irony, mourning their own kind.

Artist’s Note

Old stories often describe a Nekomata wearing a cloth towel on its head and going out dancing. I sometimes wonder if that was the dress code for the dance.