Imagine thousands of beckoning cats. They fill every space. That’s Gotoku-ji Temple for you.
Gotoku-ji is a Buddhist temple in Setagaya. It is southwest of Tokyo. But it is no ordinary temple. It’s famous as the home of the maneki-neko. This is the lucky cat figurine. The cat welcomes visitors. Its right paw is raised in the air.
The story of Gotoku-ji and the maneki-neko is quite charming. A feudal lord was passing by the temple. A cat beckoned him to come inside. Soon after, a thunderstorm came. The cat protected him from the storm. It guided him to the temple. The lord was grateful. He claimed Gotoku-ji as his family temple. He donated funds to rebuild it. He tended to its upkeep. This is the origin of the maneki-neko legend. You can find them in souvenir shops all over Japan.
People offer statues at Gotoku-ji. They ask for help from the lucky cat. They thank it when their wishes come true. The temple itself is small. But it has a three-storied pagoda. Of course, there are cats. They add character to your Japan travels.
Gotoku-ji is considered the origin of the maneki-neko. The figurine brings good fortune. It brings success to its owner. Many believe it is Chinese in origin. But the birthplace of Maneki-neko is Japan. The legend links directly to Gotoku-ji.
You will see thousands of beckoning cats. There are more here than at any other temple in Japan. The figurines use various materials. Wood, stone, metal, and porcelain are used. They come in a variety of colors. The traditional white one is most popular.
Gotoku-ji’s history dates back to 1680-81. The fifth shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, erected it. It honored his mother. Many Tokyo temples were destroyed in World War II. Gotoku-ji’s pagoda survived intact.
There is a historic cemetery. Many famous Japanese figures are buried here. You will also see a vast maple grove. It is perfect for fall foliage viewing.
In the small temple, you’ll find the Maneki-neko figurines. Shelves are stacked full of them.
Many think the Maneki-neko is waving. Some think it’s washing its face. This signals the arrival of a guest. But the waving paw beckons people.
The legend says a poor monk lived here with his cat in the 17th century. A samurai lord traveled in the region. There was a large storm. He took shelter under a tree near the temple. He saw the cat waving to him. Curious, he got closer. Lightning destroyed the tree behind him. The lord became a patron of the temple. He rebuilt it in honor of the lucky feline.
Visitors offer representations of this cat. They offer it to a god or Buddha. This makes wishes come true. It brings good fortune.
If you didn’t bring a Maneki-neko, don’t worry. There is a souvenir shop. It sells figurines. You can also buy other good-luck charms. They bring specific blessings. Warding off evil is one. Encouraging romance is another. Accumulating wealth is also an option.
Ema zodiac boards are on sale too. They have pictures of the Maneki-Neko. Many hang them in the shrine.
Outside Gotoku-ji, there is a sweet shop. It sells dorayaki pancakes. They are adorned with the beckoning cat.
Gotoku-ji’s grounds are large. They include a main hall. There is also a pagoda. Don’t forget the Ii clan cemetery. The temple’s surroundings are very quiet.
You can visit Gotoku-ji during the momiji season. Red maple trees are numerous. The scenery is sublime in autumn.
Remember no scribbling on the feline dolls. Just offer them simply. Purchasing a Manekineko figurine is also welcomed. Bring it back home.
Upon leaving Gotoku-ji, catch the tram nearby. Continue your visits. As you leave, remember the lucky cat. May it bring you good fortune.