Last Updated on 29 August 2023 by Vanessa
The book Neko Land is a stunning collection of cat photos taken in 2011 and 2012 by Alexandre Bonnefoy during his stay in Japan. It also features cute drawings of Japanese felines by his wife, the children’s book illustrator Delphine Vaufrey.
The couple’s interest in Japan is quite longstanding, having developed during their studies through Japanese graphic arts… and a curiosity for Japanese culture in general. After an initial trip as tourists in 2009, they were very eager to return and take a bit more time to explore that country and its inhabitants who intrigued them. Embarking on a journey and immersing themselves in such a different culture seemed like a very effective way for them to renew their perspective as illustrators and photographers.
While traveling in the southern part of Japan, the couple encountered numerous cats, and by the end of their first year in Japan, they had compiled an extensive photo catalog.
As Alexandre and Delphine contemplated creating a book about Japan, it became evident that addressing the theme of cats was a natural choice. Through cat photos, they discovered an intriguing common thread that allowed people to journey through less touristy locations in the country.
They also continued to capture cat photos as it presented a challenge—many stray cats didn’t readily allow close approaches. Tracking them down, deciphering clues that revealed their presence, and exercising patience were necessary to capture THE shot. Thus, they found great pleasure in this endeavor.
The resulting coffee table book, Neko Land, is undeniably a labor of love. Its high-quality production and meticulous attention to detail make it an exquisite addition to any coffee table collection – a testament to the profound connection between cats and the land of the rising sun. As a fervent admirer of both cats and travel literature, I can confidently declare Neko Land as the epitome of this niche genre.
Just a word of caution… Neko Land is only available in French. However, as the pictures and drawings take up the majority of the book, it’s the perfect gift for cat lovers anywhere.
Here’s a series of photos from this exquisite coffee table book. Enjoy!
Did you enjoy Alexandre Bonnefoy’s photo collection featuring cats amidst the nocturnal charm of Tokyo?
Why not extend this joy to your fellow cat enthusiasts by sharing it with them and across your social media platforms? By doing so, you can actively contribute to spreading the allure of Neko Land and its feline wonders. Nyā!
About Neko Land
Amidst the urban jungle of Tokyo, cozy in a neko-café, caressed by clients all day, sleeping on a pile of wood in a countryside courtyard, waiting for fresh fish on a fishing port’s quay—whether in Okinawa or Hokkaido, cats are ubiquitous in Japan. In this urban wildlife photography book, embark on a journey to encounter these Japanese cats.
