“I quit my job to photograph cats” – these gorgeous Japanese felines will make you want to escape the grind, too

Japan has a particular affinity for cats, as evidenced by the abundance of cat iconography found throughout the country. Renowned photographer Masayuki Oki has captured the adorable felines in various settings, blending his love for travel and photography. In his latest book, Neko, Oki showcases the diverse array of cats that inhabit Japan, from those lounging at temples to those strolling across the nation's iconic crossings.

Oki, who boasts over 500,000 Instagram followers and numerous accolades in nature photography, first encountered his muse, Busanyan-senpai, on New Year's Eve in 2013. The chance encounter ignited a passion that eventually led him to quit his job at the age of 37 to pursue a career in full-time cat photography. Since then, he has published 20 photo books of cats in Japan, with Neko being his first international release.

While some may assume that street cats in Japanese cities are neglected strays, the reality is quite the opposite. Many are well cared for, fed, and even taken to the veterinarian by a collective of individuals who share a love for these charming creatures. Through his lens, Oki aims to capture the inner world of cats, focusing on their emotions, complex relationships, and the almost-human expressions that make them truly irresistible.