The Japanese Bobtail did indeed originate in Japan, and has been beloved in that country for centuries. In fact, the popular Maneki Neko (beckoning cat) is a ceramic image of the Japanese Bobtail.

Their popularity is legendary, and no wonder. They are the ultimate pet. They love to fetch, carry things around in their mouths, and ride on shoulders. They adust well to travelling, dogs, and children. More importantly, they are strong, healthy cats with comparitively high disease resistance.

Warau, pictured above, is the epitome of the Japanese Bobtail.
_{Photo Credit: © Derek Hom Hageshiku}