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A must-visit for cats: Lucky Cat Temple in Tokyo.

2025/02/27

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Gotokuji Temple is located in the Setagaya ward of Tokyo. It is a Buddhist temple which is said to be the birthplace of the Maneki-Neko, or “luck-inviting cat figurine.” Cat lovers all over the world have come to love these small statues that show a cat sitting up and beckoning with its front paw.

Maneki Neko are the lucky cats of Japan

Have you ever come into contact with a Maneki Neko? One of Japan's most recognizable symbols has become these whimsical cat figures. The name 'mankei Neko' can be attributed to the cat's welcoming paw. That's why as the literal translation is 'beckoning cat.'

It's not uncommon to observe statues in shrines or as decoration. Their slow-waving, mechanical paws can be found welcoming you at restaurants, pachinko parlors, and other businesses across the country. The only thing that can be confirmed is that Maneki Neko's birthplace is uncertain when trying to pinpoint its exact origin.

Maneki Neko has made appearances in different forms of pop culture. Cats can be found in literature, anime, and even video games. Fans of Japanese culture, as well as those interested in good luck charms, have come to love Maneki Neko.

There is a shrine in Tokyo that is popular among cat lovers. It's Gotokuji

The history surrounding Gotokuji Temple

On a day when the lord was returning from the falconry, he was approached by a cat at the temple gate and decided to stop by. During his time at the temple, thunder rang out and rain started falling. The lord was impressed by the luck the cat brought after enjoying a thundershower and conversing with the temple master.

Naotaka Ii was the king of Hikone domain. In 1633, Gotokuji temple underwent a reconstruction thanks to Naotaka's financial support.

Later, the Gotokuji temple built the Shofuku-den to enshrine the cat that brought good fortune, which is named Manekineko. For decades now, numerous individuals have visited Shofuku-den to pray for the well-being of their families, successful businesses, luck, and happiness.

Where is Gotokuji Temple located?

Gotokuji is a quiet temple located away from the bustling center of Tokyo, which is making it an ideal stop for any cat-lover interested in Japanese culture and history.

It can be taken there by train or vehicle from central Tokyo.

• 5-minute-walk from Miyanosaka station, Tokyu Setagaya line
• 15-minute-walk from Gotokuji station, Odakyu line
• For vehicle entry please get through the 参道(Sando) approach road

The Gotokuji Temple Station has a lot of Motifu of Maneki Neko items. Also, there are many cat-themed signs, illustrations, and ornaments along the shopping street from the station to the temple, making the town lively.

There are lots of Maneki neko everywhere!

When visiting Gotokuji, it's common for visitors to get a cat figurine, make a wish or prayer for good luck, and then leave it at the temple. It's feasible to take the cat figurine home and keep it until the wish or prayer is fulfilled. Upon completion, it is recommended to return to Gotokuji and place the cat figurine at the temple to express gratitude.

A small corner inside the temple is where the cats can be found. A photo of your trip will be great with dozens of white cats of all sizes waving in perfect white-pawed unison! You can find Maneki Neko around the Gotokuji Temple. Let's take many pictures.

About Gotokuji

Daikeizan Gotokuji temple

Enjoy ultimate Lucky Cat experience!

Gotokuji Temple, located in Tokyo's Setagaya ward, is a Buddhist temple believed to be the birthplace of the Maneki-Neko, or beckoning cat, figurine.
The charm of these charming statues has become a symbol of good luck for cat lovers worldwide.

When you visit Tokyo, we recommend using a our taxi service [Charter Bus & Limousine Japan] . Sightseeing taxis are recommended for both first-time travelers to Tokyo and repeat visitors as they allow you to adjust the route based on your individual travel goals and interests. A Full Size Van is capable of accommodating up to 9 people for efficient sightseeing.

Have fun taking trips to the Lucky Cat Temple in Tokyo!