‘niko and …’ Unveils Whimsical ‘Nekomata Goyomi’ Collection for a Purr-fectly Playful New Year
Japanese lifestyle brand ‘niko and …’ is set to enchant cat lovers and culture enthusiasts alike with a delightful collaboration featuring Ayako Ishiguro’s popular picture book, ‘Nekomata Goyomi’. This festive collection, themed “Niko and Onya~gatsu” (a playful take on “New Year with Neko”), promises to infuse homes with the vibrant spirit of Japanese folklore, just in time for the holiday season.
The collaboration, which includes 64 unique items, will officially launch on December 12, 2025, across all ‘niko and …’ stores globally, as well as on their official web store and other major online platforms. A selection of these charming goods was made available for early viewing on the ‘niko and …’ official WEB store and ST from December 2, 2025.
‘Nekomata Goyomi’ introduces readers to a whimsical year through the eyes of five Nekomata siblings—cat yokai, or supernatural beings, from Japanese folklore, known for their enchanting presence and often mischievous nature. The book, by acclaimed artist Ayako Ishiguro, meticulously illustrates traditional Japanese annual events, reimagined with these endearing cat characters. ‘niko and …’, a brand celebrated for its “uni9ue senses” that encompass clothing, food, housing, play, knowledge, health, travel, music, and local culture, found a natural kinship with the book’s charm and its potential to bring joy to their many cat-loving customers during the festive New Year period.
The “Niko and Onya~gatsu” theme inspired Ayako Ishiguro to create exclusive new artwork for this collection, depicting the Nekomata engaging in classic New Year activities like tea ceremonies and shopping sprees. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for ‘niko and …’, introducing items like Goshuincho (decorative stamp books for collecting seals from temples and shrines), traditional Japanese Owan (bowls), Furoshiki (versatile wrapping cloths), and Oju (tiered boxes used for celebratory New Year’s meals) for the very first time in their collaboration history. Each item is an original design, exclusively available through ‘niko and …’.
Here’s a glimpse into some of the charming items:
Featured Collaboration Items
Zabuton (Cushions)
These exquisite zabuton, traditional Japanese floor cushions, feature intricate woven designs that capture the detailed expressions of the Nekomata characters. Each cushion is adorned with corner tassels, traditionally believed to ward off evil spirits, making them a perfect addition to the auspicious New Year atmosphere.
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Price: 4,510 yen (tax included)
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Colors: New Year / Neko Neko Carnival
Joint Mats
Transform any room with these cushioned joint mats, emblazoned with the collaboration’s exclusive artwork. Laying down even a single mat instantly brightens the space with playful, festive energy.
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Price: 2,860 yen (tax included)
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Color: New Year
Goshuincho (Stamp Book)
A first for ‘niko and …’, this Goshuincho combines elegance with playful charm. Crafted with luxurious jacquard weaving, it presents a sophisticated yet adorable design, perfect for recording spiritual journeys.
- Price: 2,970 yen (tax included)
Owan (Bowls)
Another first for the collaboration, these Japanese-made bowls are ideal for serving New Year’s delicacies or everyday meals. They are designed to complement other tableware in the collection, creating a cohesive and festive dining experience.
- Price: 1,430 yen (tax included)
Furoshiki (Wrapping Cloth)
Making its debut in this collaboration, the furoshiki features seasonal designs that truly shine. This versatile Japanese wrapping cloth can be used with the separately sold Oju (tiered boxes) for an authentic New Year’s presentation.
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Price: 1,430 yen (tax included)
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Color: Ivory
Special Launch Campaign
To celebrate this special collaboration, ‘niko and …’ is hosting a “Follow & Repost” gift campaign on their official X (formerly Twitter) account. From December 12, 2025, at 10:00 AM, until December 26, 2025, at 11:59 PM, participants can follow the official account (@nikoand) and repost the designated campaign post for a chance to win exclusive sets including the ‘Nekomata Goyomi’ picture book and collaboration items. This is a fantastic opportunity for fans to snag a piece of this unique collection!
Available Sets:
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A. Fabric Set (2 winners): ‘Nekomata Goyomi’ picture book / Collaboration item: Zabuton
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B. Interior Set (2 winners): ‘Nekomata Goyomi’ picture book / Collaboration item: Room shoes (M size)
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C. Tableware Set (2 winners): ‘Nekomata Goyomi’ picture book / Collaboration item: Donburi (large bowl)
Where to Find the Collection
The full collection will be available from December 12, 2025, at 10:00 AM (JST) onwards.
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Special Collaboration Website: https://www.dot-st.com/nikoand/cp/202512product_zakka
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Pre-release Site (for early viewing): https://www.dot-st.com/nikoand/disp/itemlist/?dispNo=002005316&stock=0
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Retail Locations: All ‘niko and …’ stores (domestic and international), and ST Yume Mall Saijo, and ST Lalaport Anjo, official WEB store and ST, ZOZOTOWN, Rakuten Fashion.
- Note: Release dates and product availability may vary by store and region.
This collaboration seamlessly blends traditional Japanese folklore with modern lifestyle aesthetics, creating a collection that is both culturally rich and playfully contemporary. It’s a testament to how Kawaii culture continues to evolve, embracing deeper narrative roots while offering fresh, engaging products to a global audience. “Cat lovers, rejoice! This collection is a must-have for anyone looking to infuse their home with a touch of playful Japanese folklore and celebrate the New Year with charming Nekomata companions.” This unique fusion is sure to resonate with fans worldwide, further expanding the delightful reach of Japanese character and lifestyle goods.
