The Maneki-neko Shrine: An Adorably Lucky Stroll to Summon Wealth and Fortune

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department, compiled and reported by Liao Qiyu
 

Visiting shrines is an absolute must when traveling in Japan. Aside from praying for good luck, many also come to seek wealth and love. In Tokyo, you have some unique options—there are three famous Maneki-neko shrines in the city, including Gōtoku-ji in Setagaya, Imado Shrine in Asakusa, and Zuijin-in in Shinjuku. Each has its own distinct features and stories. On your next shrine-hopping trip, follow the paw prints of these lucky cats and conquer them one by one.

● Gōtoku-ji

Legend has it that Gōtoku-ji is the birthplace of the Maneki-neko. Nestled in a quiet residential area on the outskirts of Tokyo, the story goes that one day, the lord of the Hikone Domain was returning from a falconry trip when he noticed a cute cat waving at him near Gōtoku-ji. He followed the cat into the temple. While inside, he enjoyed tea and listened to the monk’s sermon as a sudden heavy rain poured outside. Grateful for the cat’s shelter, the lord donated a large sum of money to renovate the temple. It is said that the very first Maneki-neko statue was modeled after the cat the lord encountered. Additionally, Gōtoku-ji built a “Manekineko Hall” dedicated to the Fortune-Cat Goddess, enshrining a Maneki-neko Kannon statue. Nearby, there are over a thousand Maneki-neko statues, creating an amazing sight.

【Info】
Gōtoku-ji
Address: 2-24-7 Gotokuji, Setagaya, Tokyo

Transportation: 15-minute walk from Gotokuji Station / 5-minute walk from Miyanosaka Station

● Imado Shrine

Renowned for its powers to bless visitors with good romantic relationships, Imado Shrine enshrines Emperor Chūai, Izanagi-no-Mikoto, and Izanami-no-Mikoto. Izanagi and Izanami were the first deities to form a marital bond among the Shinto gods, settling and shaping the Japanese islands and giving birth to numerous other deities. Thus, they are worshipped as symbols of love and prosperity. This shrine is also considered one of the “birthplaces of the Maneki-neko,” featuring a pair of large male and female Maneki-neko statues guarding the main prayer hall, inviting good fortune and romance for worshippers.