Gotokuji Temple: Tokyo’s Adorable Lucky Cat Shrine

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Gotokuji Temple, located in the Setagaya ward of Tokyo, is renowned as the birthplace of the maneki-neko, or “luck-inviting cat figurine.” These charming statues, which depict a cat sitting upright and beckoning with its front paw, have gained global popularity among cat enthusiasts.

Pick up a charming lucky cat wishing plaque at the temple—may all your wishes come true!

While maneki-neko come in various forms, raising either their right or left paw, Gotokuji Temple is particularly known for its right-pawed versions of this lucky symbol. Have you ever spotted a photo at Tokyo Station showcasing numerous lucky cats? (It’s a poster by the Tokyo Tourism Board.) The temple’s lucky cats become even more enchanting as the autumn leaves turn red, adding to the temple’s seasonal allure.

A giant lucky cat costs 5,000 yen, a large lucky cat costs 3,500 yen, and a mini lucky cat costs 300 yen—they all look so cute!

The Story Behind Gotokuji Temple's Lucky Cats

Legend has it that during the Edo period, Gotokuji Temple had a cat living there. One day, Ii Naotaka, the feudal lord of Hikone Domain, happened to pass by. The cat waved him into the temple, and as he entered, a sudden thunderstorm erupted. Grateful for the cat’s gesture, Ii Naotaka donated farmland and property to Gotokuji Temple. This act marked the beginning of the lucky cat tradition. After his death, Ii Naotaka was also buried at Gotokuji, the temple that had once been so significant to him.

Meow 🐾
There are Big Neko and Small Neko

From giant to mini, Gotokuji Temple offers a delightful variety of lucky cats. Whether you’re looking for a large figurine to make a statement or a small one to fit in your collection, there’s a lucky cat for everyone. Explore the range and find the perfect one to bring some charm and good fortune into your life!

Raise your hand if you want garlic breadsticks!
Overflowing with Lucky Cats!

How to get there

Take the vintage Setagaya Line tram to Miyanosaka Station (mi-ya-no-sa-ka), then enjoy a 3-minute walk to reach the birthplace of the lucky cat—Gotokuji Temple. The Setagaya Line even features a delightful ‘lucky cat tram’ daily, complete with a lucky cat’s face at the front and paw prints and grips inside the carriage.

The Setagaya Line has a limited-edition lucky cat tram, inspired by the thousands of lucky cats at Gotokuji Temple. With a lucky cat’s face at the front, the tram looks like giant lucky cats on wheels! So cute!

Inside the station, you’ll find the special timetable. The lucky cat tram is a special treat for those fortunate enough to catch it. Even the handles inside the carriage are decorated with lucky cat paws 🐾🐾🐾.

Miyanosaka Station

Take the Setagaya Line to Miyanosaka Station (mi-ya-no-sa-ka).

At Miyanosaka Station, you can visit an old tram on display, where local mums often gather for a chat. The wooden floors and green seats are a nostalgic touch, offering a glimpse of the past as trams become more modern. It’s a rare chance to experience the charm of vintage trams up close!

In Showa 43 (1968), this type of tram used to run from Sangenjaya Station to Shibuya. It has since been replaced by modern trams.

The tram from Sangenjaya Station to Shibuya looked like this in Showa 43 (1968).

On the Gotokuji Temple map, look for the giant lucky cat illustration—that’s where you’ll find thousands of lucky cat statues. If you’re having trouble locating them, just refer to the map for a little extra guidance!

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