Gotokuji Temple in Japan boasts a myriad of waving cat statues

Gotokuji Temple in Tokyo, Japan, is the realm of beckoning cat deities with an array of statues scattered throughout the premises.

Gotokuji Temple in Japan is adorned with thousands of waving cat statues

The waving cat statue, often displayed in bedrooms or offices, symbolizes 'beckoning wealth' for prosperity and success. Despite the misconception that it originated in China, the 'beckoning cat of wealth' traces its roots to Japan, known as Maneki Neko.

A renowned location for Maneki Neko cats is the Gotokuji Temple in Setagaya district, Tokyo, where the legend explains the fortunate cat's appearance.

The story, dating back to the Edo period, recounts a temple cat at Gotokuji guiding a lord to safety during a storm. Taking shelter under a tree near the temple, the lord followed the cat waving its paw, narrowly avoiding a lightning strike as they left.

He contributed funds to Gotokuji Temple as a token of gratitude for the cat's lifesaving act. The Maneki Neko statue was crafted to express the lord's appreciation. Subsequently, visitors to the temple also began to worship the cat statues, seeking blessings.

Gotokuji Temple has more Maneki Neko statues than any other shrine or temple in Japan. A small corner within the temple features wooden shelves adorned with numerous waving cats, ranging from a few dozen to possibly hundreds of statues of various sizes and materials such as wood, stone, metal, porcelain, with a variety of colors. Among them, the traditional white Maneki Neko statues are more prevalent.

Gotokuji Temple, peacefully located in the outskirts of Tokyo, is the perfect haven for cat enthusiasts interested in Japanese culture and history. Here, visitors receive warm and friendly hospitality from the staff at Gotokuji Temple. Even with language barriers, tourists can explore the temple's stories in English.

Inside the temple, omikuji (Japanese fortune-telling paper) and cat statues of various sizes are displayed for sale. Most miniature cat statues in the shop are priced around 300 yen, while the largest life-sized statue costs about 5,000 yen. Travelers can also choose a wooden ema plaque to write down their prayers, hoping their wishes will come true.

As per Monster

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Reference: Travel Handbook by Mytour