Located in Setagaya, Tokyo, Gōtokuji Temple is famously known as one of the origins of the Japanese lucky cat (maneki-neko).
Visitors to Gōtokuji Temple often purchase a lucky cat (maneki-neko) from the temple to make a wish. Once their wish is fulfilled, they return to the temple with the lucky cat to express their gratitude.
Here, you’ll find thousands of soothing white lucky cats, a testament to the many wishes that have come true. This impressive display draws numerous visitors each year, eager to experience the charm of Gōtokuji Temple.
Gōtokuji Temple itself is relatively small, and most visitors typically head to the next destination via the Setagaya Line tram or Odakyu Line. However, don’t miss out on the delightful eateries located in the shopping street next to the station! Whether you’re looking for a meal or a spot for afternoon tea, a visit to the Gōtokuji shopping street is definitely worth it!
Takeaway Afternoon Tea Treats Around Gōtokuji
RARASAND Gotokuji Main Store
If you have a smaller appetite but want to experience the local cuisine around Gōtokuji, I highly recommend RARASAND.
RARASAND’s snacks are crafted by skilled artisans, and their Japanese sweets, known as “monaka” shaped like the famous Gōtokuji lucky cats, are particularly popular.
RARASAND’s “monaka” uses 100% “Shin Taisho” glutinous rice, roasted to perfection by skilled artisans.
The roasted rice cakes leave a lingering aroma, while the white bean paste filling in the center is smooth and not overly sweet. It’s definitely a must-try!
- RARASAND Gōtokuji Main Store
- 10:00~20:00。
- Closed on Mondays, and hours may vary based on store conditions. Please check the official website for details.
- A 3-minute walk from Odakyu Line Gōtokuji Station.
- Official Website
Yakiimo Speciality Store
Is there anyone else like me who can’t resist roasted sweet potatoes?
On the shopping street in Gōtokuji, there’s a specialty store that sells a variety of roasted sweet potatoes. In addition to the classic Annō sweet potatoes, they offer many different varieties from across Japan, satisfying visitors’ cravings for something new.
This time, I tried the “Naruto Kintoki Satomusume” from Tokushima Prefecture in Japan. The white sweet potato was quite novel to me, with a wonderfully rich texture and elegant sweetness. It is DELICIOUS when it is freshly cooked!
- Yakiimo Specialty Store
- 10:00~19:00。
- Closed on Thursdays.
- A 10-minute walk from Gōtokuji.
- Official Website
Best Chinese Cuisine Around Gōtokuji
La Shangdi
If you’ve been travelling in Japan for a while and are craving some Chinese cuisine, you have to try “Là Shàngdì,” Japan’s only speciality store for Sichuan-style hot and sour noodles!
When I visited, locals mentioned that “Là Shàngdì” had recently appeared on a Japanese variety show, leading to long lines during meal times. The restaurant has become so popular!
I’ve already visited “Là Shàngdì” twice and can’t get enough of their chewy hot and sour noodles and aromatic spicy broth. It’s truly satisfying!
- Là Shàngdì
- Weekdays: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM Weekends and holidays: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Closed on Tuesday evenings, and Wednesdays and Thursdays.
- A 10-minute walk from Gōtokuji.
- Official website
Ōsaka Ōshō Gōtokuji Branch
Founded in 1969 in Osaka, Ōsaka Ōshō is famous for its Japanese-style pan-fried dumplings. With numerous locations in Japan and even branches in Taiwan, it’s a well-known name.
Why am I especially recommending it? Besides its delicious food, the Gōtokuji branch of Ōsaka Ōshō offers a special Gōtokuji Fried Rice that is delightful!
Aside from the special menu items, the gyoza and the Tianjin rice are must-tries! If you’re looking to change up your flavour, I highly recommend giving them a try!
- Ōsaka Ōshō Gōtokuji Branch
- 11:00~22:00。
- A 11-minute walk from Gōtokuji.
- Official Website
Gōtokuji Market
The Gōtokuji Market, located on the shopping street around Gōtokuji, is a charming little alley with around 100 years of history, filled with local memories. It features not only unique shops but also delicious dessert stores.
This area was once the cornerstone of local daily shopping. Although the market has diminished over time, it continues to host many unique and distinctive shops.
Holic Food Lab
Hidden within Gōtokuji Market, Holic Food Lab is a dessert shop that evolved from the beverage store Holic Color Drinks, which was established in 2017.
The most famous item here is their pudding. Although it might look unassuming, each bite is a delightful surprise. The pudding is not only rich but also “extra creamy”! Its texture is smooth like set cream yet firm, giving it a luxurious feel. It pairs wonderfully with the store’s homemade fresh berry sauces, creating an exceptional flavor combination.
- Holic Food Lab
- 11:00~18:00。
- Closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
- A 11-minute walk from Gōtokuji.
- Official Website
Conclusion
The shopping street around Gōtokuji is filled with a charming and tranquil local atmosphere. Not only can you enjoy delicious food, but there are also many unique vintage shops waiting for you to explore. After visiting Gōtokuji Temple, don’t rush off—take a stroll through the shopping street! I’m sure you’ll love it!
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