![[Airing July 2025] A Must-Watch for Cat Lovers! Complete Guide to the Anime](https://content.fun-japan.jp/renewal-prod/cms/articles/content/shutterstock2457349245jpg_2025-04-23-02-39-04.jpg)
Have you ever imagined a world where, in the year 20XX, a virus that turns humans into cats after touching them spreads globally, leading to cats dominating the world?
"Night of the Living Cat," an unprecedented anime depicting the intense survival of cats who have ascended to the top of the biological hierarchy and the remaining humans, will begin airing in July 2025. In this article, we'll introduce the plot synopsis, broadcast information, and even cat-related spots across Japan.
*If you purchase or reserve any products introduced in this article, a portion of the sales may be returned to FUN! JAPAN.
What is the Story and Highlights of "Night of the Living Cat"?
A Fresh Take on “Cat-Full Horror”: A Survival Story for Cat Lovers
"Night of the Living Cat" is set in a world where a mysterious virus is turning humans into cats one after another. In this desperate situation where "touching a cat instantly turns you into one," people hide in shelters, living in silence. The story revolves around Kunagi, an amnesiac cat cafe employee, and the people he encounters in this world.
Why have the cats transformed? The mystery element of pursuing this enigma also forms a crucial axis of the story. Can humanity find a way to coexist with the cats? Or are they doomed to perish in a world dominated by felines? The shocking developments will keep you glued to the story.
A major highlight of this work is the psychological portrayal of humans placed in a state where "you can only survive if cats dislike you," as well as the conflict of "wanting to pet but not being able to."
Will humanity be able to find a way to coexist with the cats? Or are they destined to perish in this cat-dominated world? The shocking developments will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Don’t Miss the Star-Studded Voice Cast of "Night of the Living Cat"
What further enhances the appeal of this anime is the talented voice cast.
Kunagi CV: Masaaki Mizunaka
Masaaki Mizunaka plays the protagonist Kunagi, a cat café employee who has lost his memories. Known for roles such as Keisuke Baji in "Tokyo Revengers," Mizunaka is a versatile actor capable of portraying a wide range of characters from brooding types to hot-blooded heroes.
Kaoru CV: Reina Ueda
The heroine Kaoru, a high school girl who fights alongside Kunagi, is voiced by Reina Ueda. She is popular for her transparent voice quality and delicate acting, known for roles such as Kanao Tsuyuri in "Demon Slayer" and Akane Shinjo in "SSSS.GRIDMAN."
Arata CV: Reiji Kawashima
Reiji Kawashima, who has been appearing in many popular works recently, such as Finn Ames in "MASHLE," plays Arata, a college student and former track team member obsessed with ninjas.
Tsutsumi CV: Yu Serizawa
Yu Serizawa, known for her role as Yumemi Yumemite in "Kakegurui" and as a member of the voice actress idol unit "i☆Ris," plays Tsutsumi, a cat-loving high school girl. It will be exciting to see how she portrays this character.
Ren CV: Subaru Kimura
Subaru Kimura, who has a wide range of roles including Gian in "Doraemon" and Ichiro Yamada in "Hypnosis Mic," plays Ren, the eldest son of the legendary Ward family who reportedly defended their base from cats for three days and nights without sleep.
"Night of the Living Cat" - What Makes the Original Manga Amazing!
This work is based on the manga of the same name by Mr. Hawkman (original story) and Mr. Mekaroots (illustration). It is currently being serialized in "Monthly Comic Garden" and "MAGCOMI," and its innovative setting and unpredictable story development have garnered attention, attracting support from many manga fans.
Its popularity is well-established, having been nominated for high-profile manga awards such as the "Next Manga Award 2021" and the "Reader's Choice Electronic Comic Award 2024."
Readers have shared numerous comments such as "It's interesting despite the outrageous setting," "The gap between the cuteness and scariness of the cats is amazing," and "I can't wait to see what happens next," indicating the highly addictive nature of the series.
As for the anime adaptation, both fans of the original work and those new to the series through the anime are eagerly anticipating how the unique atmosphere and horror elements of the original will be translated into animation. The original manga can be purchased at bookstores and online stores, so it's recommended to check it out before the anime broadcast begins.
👉 【animate】Buy Night of the Living Cat Vol.1~6
About Takashi Miike, the Director of "Night of the Living Cat"
The director of this series is Takashi Miike, a visionary filmmaker who is a true icon of Japanese cinema and has earned worldwide acclaim.
"The Master of Violence": Are Love and Violence Synonymous?
Director Takashi Miike is known for his extreme depictions of violence and unique worldview in films like "Audition" and "Ichi the Killer," earning him the title "Master of Violence." He has been highly acclaimed at international film festivals, including Cannes, and his skills are recognized both domestically and internationally.
On the other hand, Miike continues to produce works across various genres, including comedy, period dramas, special effects films, and children's movies (such as the "The Great Yokai War" series), showcasing his versatility.
In past interviews, Miike has made statements to the effect that "love and violence are synonymous," demonstrating his ability to portray not just violence but also the fundamental impulses and emotions of human beings. His unique sensibility that connects the seemingly incompatible concepts of "love" and "violence" may be the driving force behind his captivating works.
There is great anticipation to see how Director Miike will approach the unusual subject of "cat horror," where cats attack humans.
Takashi Miike's representative works: Top 3 popularity ranking (*)
Some of the highly popular and representative works directed by Takashi Miike include the following:
*Source: Voting-based ranking site "Minna no Ranking"
1st Place: "Crows Zero" (2007) and "Crows Zero II" (2009)
These films are original prequels to Hiroshi Takahashi's popular manga "Crows." Featuring a star-studded cast including Shun Oguri and Takayuki Yamada, they depict the conflicts between delinquent high school students with powerful action scenes. The movies were major hits, stylishly portraying the energy and violence of youth, exciting many viewers.
2nd Place: "Lesson of the Evil" (2012)
This film is an adaptation of Yusuke Kishi's psycho-horror novel. It tells the shocking story of a high school teacher, immensely popular among students, who is actually a terrifying psychopath who brutally murders his students for his own purposes. Hideaki Ito's chilling performance was widely discussed, and the film became controversial for challenging ethical norms.
3rd Place: "One Missed Call" (2004)
Based on Yasushi Akimoto's horror novel, this film was adapted into a movie that became a social phenomenon. It depicts a cursed chain of events where people die at a predicted time after answering a strange incoming call on their mobile phones. The gradually building horror and the use of a familiar tool like mobile phones effectively heightened the audience's fear.
"Night of the Living Cat" Broadcast Information
The eagerly anticipated broadcast is scheduled as follows:
- Broadcast start date: July 2025
- Broadcasting channels: TV Tokyo, BS TV Tokyo, and others
In addition to TV broadcast, the show will be available for streaming:
- Early Streaming: Planned on ABEMA
- Other Platforms: Various streaming services will also offer the show
For those who may find it difficult to watch via terrestrial broadcasting, you can enjoy the show through ABEMA's early streaming or other streaming services. Please stay tuned for further announcements regarding specific broadcast dates, times, and streaming service details.
Famous Cat Spots in Japan: Cat Island, Cat Cafes, etc.
While cats are portrayed as terrifying creatures in "Night of the Living Cat," in the real world, they are irreplaceable beings that provide us with comfort and solace. Before the anime series begins airing, let's explore some of Japan's famous cat spots that you might want to visit.
Cat Island: A paradise where cats live freely
Japan is home to several islands known as "Cat Islands," where many cats live peacefully.
【Kanagawa】Enoshima
Enoshima is a popular tourist destination easily accessible from central Tokyo. The island is well-known as a spot where you can encounter many friendly community cats. You can observe cats relaxing around Enoshima Shrine and on the rocky areas on the back side of the island. Local residents provide food for the cats, so visitors are advised not to feed them to avoid causing any disturbance. Instead, please quietly observe and enjoy their presence.
- Location: Enoshima, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Access: A short walk from Katase-Enoshima Station on the Odakyu Line
【Miyagi】Tashirojima
Tashirojima is a remote island belonging to Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture. It's nationally famous as the "Cat Island." The number of cats is said to exceed the human population. In the center of the island, there's even a "Cat Shrine" dedicated to felines. Fishing is the main industry, and cats have long been cherished as "guardians of good catches." The whole island has an atmosphere like a paradise for cats, offering healing to visitors.
- Location: Tashirohama, Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture
- Access
(1) To Ishinomaki Chuo Boarding Point: 15-minute walk from JR Ishinomaki Station
(2) To Odomari Port or Nitoda Port: About 40 minutes by boat from Ishinomaki Chuo Boarding Point
👉 Click here for the ferry schedule
【Ehime】Aoshima
Aoshima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea, belonging to Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture. It's also famous as a "Cat Island," with over 100 cats living alongside just a dozen or so human residents. In recent years, its popularity has increased due to media coverage. However, the island lacks shops, vending machines, or accommodation facilities. When visiting, it's crucial to bring your own food and drinks, and take all trash with you when leaving. Feeding the cats is not prohibited, but should be done in designated areas.
- Location: Aoshima, Nagahama-cho, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture
- Access: About 2-minute walk from JR Iyo-Nagahama Station to Aoshima boarding point. Then about 45 minutes by boat from Nagahama Port
👉 Click here for the ferry schedule
Cat Cafes: A Delightful Oasis in the Urban Jungle
For those who want to interact with cats in a casual setting, cat cafes are highly recommended.
【Tokyo】Temari no Ouchi & Temari no Oshiro
Located in Kichijoji, these cat cafes feature interiors reminiscent of a picture book world. "Temari no Ouchi" and its sister shop "Temari no Oshiro" both offer unique atmospheres where you can interact with cats roaming freely. One of the attractions is that there's no time limit, allowing for a relaxed experience.
- Official website:
Temari no Ouchi http://www.temarinoouchi.com/
Temari no Oshiro https://temarinooshiro.com/
👉 【Klook】Tokyo Cat Cafe in Kichijoji
【Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, etc.】 MOCHA
A popular chain of cat cafes with locations in major cities across Japan. Known for its stylish and clean interiors, MOCHA is especially popular among younger generations. The cafes offer additional amenities such as free manga and magazines, Wi-Fi, and power outlets, enhancing the overall cafe experience.
- Official website: https://catmocha.jp/en/
【Tokyo, Osaka, Gifu, Shiga, Hiroshima, etc.】Rescue Cat Cafe Neco Republic
This cat cafe aims for sustainable cat rescue, engaging in adoption activities for rescued cats. Working with local animal rescue organizations, Neco Republic provides a space to interact with cats rescued from various circumstances while supporting potential adopters.
- Official website: https://www.neco-republic.jp/
👉 【Klook】Neko Bathhouse & Neko Hatago (Osaka)
Cat Station Masters: Mascot Cats Revitalizing Local Communities
Cat station masters, working on local railway lines across Japan, continue to be beloved symbols for attracting tourists and revitalizing local areas.
Kishigawa Line of Wakayama Electric Railway
The Kishigawa Line became famous with its first cat station master, the calico cat "Tama." Currently, the second-generation "Ultra Station Master" Nitama, "Manager Station Master" Yontama, and "Station Master Fuku" Gotama are on duty. With cat-themed station buildings and the "Tama Train," this is an irresistible spot for cat lovers. The adorable presence of these cats brings smiles to many people and contributes to the revitalization of the local community.
- Official website: https://wakayama-dentetsu.co.jp/cat-stationmaster/
👉 Click here for details such as the work schedule of the cat station master
Aizu Railway Ashinomaki Onsen Station
At Ashinomaki-Onsen Station in Fukushima Prefecture, the third-generation honorary station master "Sakura" is currently active. The station building displays photos and merchandise, attracting many railway and cat enthusiasts. The sight of cats working at this tranquil hot spring town station is truly heartwarming.
* Photographing the cats is prohibited
- Official website: https://www.ashinomakionseneki.com/
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