04/09/2026
The Story of Gotokuji: Tokyo's Original Lucky Cat Temple
Gotokuji Temple is the legendary birthplace of the Maneki-neko (beckoning cat), originating in the 17th century when a temple cat waved a feudal lord inside, saving him from a lightning strike. The grateful lord transformed the run-down grounds into his family temple. Today, visitors buy white cat figurines, take them home to make a wish, and return them to the temple display once that wish comes true—explaining the thousands of figurines lining the grounds.
Unlike typical lucky cats holding gold coins, Gotokuji's cats hold nothing, reflecting the temple philosophy that the cat provides the opportunity, but you must work to achieve success. Every cat here raises its right paw—symbolizing luck, health, and protection—and keen-eyed visitors can even spot hidden cat carvings nestled within the ornate wood panels of the temple's three-story pagoda.
May all our wishes come true. ✨🐈
