Essential Tips on Japan’s “Maneki-neko” Lucky Cats: 8 Colors and Gestures with Hidden Meanings

Reported and photographed by Reporter You [name censored]／Okayama, Japan




▲ Maneki-neko. (Photo／Reporter You [name censored])

The origin of the Maneki-neko is said to date back to the Edo period in Japan when cat ownership became popular. Legend has it that someone once encountered a cat at a temple that beckoned them inside. Soon after, a heavy rainstorm struck, but the person was spared from disaster, and the cat came to be seen as an embodiment of good fortune. Because of this tale, many began to believe that keeping a cat brought luck. The image of the “Maneki-neko” was thus established, and over generations, by the early Showa period, nearly every household had one—evolving into the lucky cats we know today.

Most Taiwanese people are familiar with Maneki-neko that wave either their left or right paw. However, not only do the raised paws have distinct meanings, but the colors also carry specific significance. If you want to choose the right Maneki-neko to bring good luck to yourself or your loved ones, you can refer to the color guide provided by the Maneki-neko Museum. 《ETtoday Eastday News Cloud》 specially interviewed Chūmei Hitoko, a curator at the Okayama “Maneki-neko Museum” in Japan, to share essential “Maneki-neko knowledge” that travelers to Japan should know.

Essential Maneki-neko Knowledge
1. Right paw up = money, left paw up = people; both paws up = luck

2. Color meanings:
White – Brings good fortune
Gold – Brings wealth and prosperity
Red – Promotes health
Purple – Encourages longevity
Pink – Attracts love
Green – Enhances learning
Blue – Ensures home safety
Black – Wards off evil spirits

3. A small bell symbolizes the warding off of misfortune; if you’re choosing a Maneki-neko, you might want to pick one with a bell.