Misao and Fukumaru: this grandma and cat duo from Chiba, Japan, will melt your heart!
Fukumaru cat
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Today we are going to Chiba, Japan, with a heartwarming tale about the extraordinary bond between a grandmother and her cat—an inspiration for cherishing life’s simple joys. Miyoko Ihara, a gifted photographer, embarked on a mission to document her grandmother Misao’s life, culminating in the creation of the touching and beautiful photo book titled Misao The Big Mama And Fukumaru The Cat. This article delves into the remarkable connection between Misao and Fukumaru, showcasing their everyday adventures and the profound lessons they impart.

grandmother and catmisao the big mama and fukumaru the cat

How it all started

Miyoko Ihara, a graduate of the esteemed Nippon Photography Institute, possessed a deep appreciation for the art of capturing life’s essence through the lens. In 2002, she embarked on a poignant photographic journey with a specific purpose—to document the experiences of her beloved grandmother, Misao, who lives in Chiba, a picturesque prefecture located on the eastern coast of Honshu, the largest island of Japan, situated adjacent to Tokyo.

Little did Miyoko know that this endeavor would unveil a remarkable bond between her grandmother and a white odd-eyed kitten named Fukumaru “Partly because they are both hard of hearing, my grandmother and Fukumaru are always looking into each other’s eyes. They’re really close,” Miyoko says.

Miyoko Ihara grandmother and catodd-eyed cat

Inseparable companions

Misao stumbled upon Fukumaru in a shed one fateful day, and their destinies intertwined from that moment forward. Instantly enamored by its charming gaze, she decided to name her newfound feline friend “Fukumaru,” a name infused with hope and meaning.

In the Japanese language, “Fukumaru” holds a special significance – “Fuku” translates to “good fortune,” while “Maru” denotes “circle.” With these two powerful elements entwined in the name, Misao wished for an auspicious future for both herself and her dear companion. The belief in the “God of Fuku” manifested as an expression of optimism that blessings of good fortune would grace their lives, and that any obstacles they encountered would be gently smoothed over, creating a harmonious and complete circle of prosperity and happiness.

Misao and Fukumaru quickly became inseparable, sharing a profound friendship that enriched their lives. With each passing day, Fukumaru proved to be Misao’s steadfast source of joy and comfort. As Miyoko’s camera captured their everyday activities, it became evident that Misao and Fukumaru were more than just owner and pet—they were kindred spirits, always looking out for each other.

grandmother Misao and cat Fukumarugrandmother Misao and cat

Embracing the rhythms of nature

Misao’s way of life and her unbreakable bond with Fukumaru serve as a powerful testament to the strength found in simplicity. Her days mirrored the rise and fall of the sun, and she reveled in the beauty of the natural world around her. Tending to her vegetables in the field, Misao treated them as her own children, finding joy in their growth and nourishment.

“When I see the way my grandmother is living her life, I really feel that she has a kind of strength that my generation simply can’t match,” Miyoko says. “If her vegetables come out well, she’s happy. She doesn’t have to worry about questions like ‘What’s the point of my work?’ Her way of life fills me with admiration and a sort of envy.”

Miyoko Ihara photosFukumaru the cat

A book that captures the essence

The photographs documenting their close bond were compiled into a book, Misao The Big Mama And Fukumaru The Cat. This touching and beautiful photo book became a beloved bestseller in Japan and gained viral status worldwide. It invites readers into the intimate world of Misao and Fukumaru, where they work side by side in the fields, savor the beauty of blooming spring blossoms, and find solace in the warmth of the sun. Through Miyoko’s lens, the pure bond between a woman in her twilight years and a feline companion is captured in vivid detail, leaving an indelible impression on all who engage with the book.

Miyoko Ihara grandmotherbest-selling cat book in Japan

2021 update – R.I.P. Misao and Fukumaru

Tragically, in February 2016, Fukumaru passed away at the age of 11 due to kidney failure. Although he faced medical challenges and pain, Fukumaru’s spirit remained resilient until the end. The news of his departure brought an outpouring of sympathy from thousands of people worldwide who had been touched by his unique relationship with Grandma Misao. The depth of their connection resonated deeply within the hearts of cat lovers and admirers of their story.

After Fukumaru crossed over the Rainbow Bridge, Grandma Misao, who had experienced the loss of her beloved companion, did not seek another cat. She continued to cherish the memories they shared, holding onto the love they had cultivated. In November 2021, Grandma Misao peacefully passed away in her 90s due to heart failure. Her legacy lives on through the captivating photographs taken by her granddaughter, Miyoko, capturing the moments that defined their bond.

friendship cat grandmother

Conclusion

The story of Misao and Fukumaru reminds us of the power of companionship, the strength found in simplicity, and the profound impact animals can have on our lives. Through the lens of Miyoko Ihara’s camera, their extraordinary connection is immortalized, allowing us to witness the beauty of their everyday life. As we reflect on this remarkable tale, let us embrace the lessons it imparts, cherishing each moment and finding joy in the company of those we hold dear.

We hope you’ve been touched and inspired by the heartwarming tale of Misao and Fukumaru. If this story has touched you as much as it touched us, we kindly ask you to spread its magic and inspiration by sharing it on your favorite social media platforms. By sharing this tale of love and resilience, you have the power to brighten someone else’s day and remind them of the profound connections we can form with the animals we hold dear.

cat paw holding hand

cats book

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