Although I’ve lived in this neighborhood for nine years and have wandered by and even into this shrine a few times, only this past Sunday did I discover that six stray cats live there.
I am enjoying this series so much, Bill. I am happy to see that these strays you show us seem healthy and well-fed and cared for. What about affection, I wonder? Do most of them allow you to pet them or hold them or do they run? That black and white sure is a fine looking fellow. I have seen so many photos of these sorts of red gates. What is their significance?
Some of the cats are petable, and some won't let you touch them. The ones I photographed that day are the more aloof shrine cats, but I will be back to meet the others.
The gate is the entrance from the human to the sacred world of the shrine.
I love the idea of "communal cats" -- shrine cats, library cats, office cats ... More places need cats! 😀
I agree. The world would be a better place if there were cats everywhere.
I am enjoying this series so much, Bill. I am happy to see that these strays you show us seem healthy and well-fed and cared for. What about affection, I wonder? Do most of them allow you to pet them or hold them or do they run? That black and white sure is a fine looking fellow. I have seen so many photos of these sorts of red gates. What is their significance?
Some of the cats are petable, and some won't let you touch them. The ones I photographed that day are the more aloof shrine cats, but I will be back to meet the others.
The gate is the entrance from the human to the sacred world of the shrine.
I'm delighted you're enjoying the cats, Sharron.
That's so nice :)
It's a lovely place for people and cats.
I like dogs. They're simple, loyal pets.
But i LOVE cats! We are their pets.
I am not confused but enlightened, and thAt diScernmEnt is Not a prObl3m. mY miNd Is jUsT fIn3, tHanKs. (making biscuits now)...
I'd love to have a dog, too. I think our cat wouldn't be happy with another being in the apartment (and that includes humans), so we'll just keep her.
This is great! Shrine cats would fit the Japanese consciousness perfectly.
Thank you, John. I love visiting shrine cats.