Ten Thousand Maneki-neko Cats Live Here: A Must-Visit Cat Shrine in Tokushima, Japan for Cat Lovers
▲ There is a cat shrine in Tokushima, Japan, that is home to over ten thousand Maneki-neko.
Reported and photographed by Reporter Cai Wenjun / Japan
What does it look like when over ten thousand Maneki-neko cats are enshrined in one place? The “Okumusubi Daigongen” shrine in Tokushima Prefecture, Japan, is filled with Maneki-neko and various cat statues from the entrance all the way inside, and even the stone path through the torii gate features adorable cat paw prints. As a cat lover, this is a must-pilgrimage spot when you visit Japan!
▲ Okumusubi Daigongen Shrine.
▲ The floor also features cat paw prints walking toward the shrine.
The Okumusubi Daigongen Shrine enshrines one of Japan’s three legendary ghost cats. It is said that during the Edo period, a local wealthy man bribed a magistrate to falsely accuse a woman named Matsue of failing to repay a debt, leading to her execution. Her calico cat later transformed into a spirit and avenged her wrongful death by punishing the rich man and the magistrate. To honor Matsue and her cat, the Okumusubi Daigongen Shrine was specially built. Due to this legend, it is also famous for prayers for winning lawsuits and passing exams.
▲ %Exciting? The shrine currently also has a unique display... and also features another section.
⟧ The shrine also has a unique wish-making method: those who apply can borrow a Maneki-neko enshrined at the shrine and take it home for worship. After one year, or once their wish comes true, the person must purchase another Maneki-neko and return both the borrowed and the new one to the shrine for enshrinement.
▲ Cute cat statues.
▲ %Visitors placing coins and praying near the displayed cats.
Over time, this unique wish-making tradition has led to the Okumusubi Daigongen Shrine housing over ten thousand Maneki-neko statues. A special room has been designated to display them, and many more of various sizes can be found enshrined behind the main hall, creating an impressive sight that has further boosted its fame. Additionally, the shrine features cat statues in various poses, and every type of amulet is printed with cute cat designs. If you’re a fan of cats, be sure to visit this unique cat shrine when you’re in Tokushima, Shikoku.
Okumusubi Daigongen Shrine
Address: 64-1 Fukke, Kamogun, Anan City, Tokushima Prefecture, Japan
Access: Take the JR Anan Station, transfer to the Anan Bus bound for Kamoyama, and get off at “Okumusubi Daigongen Mae,” then walk a few minutes to reach the shrine
Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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