Maneki Neko: Japan's Lucky Cat Symbol Explained

Maneki Neko, the iconic beckoning cat figurines, originated in Japan's Edo Period (1615–1868) and have symbolized good fortune for over 400 years. Their exact origin is disputed, but legends often involve a cat saving a priest or merchant. One story tells of a poor monk whose cat beckoned traveling samurai to Gotokuji Temple in Tokyo, leading to donations. Another tale credits a feudal lord building the temple after a cat saved him from a thunderstorm. The cats were first made into clay figures following a dream of an old woman who sold her cat. A raised left paw attracts customers, while a right paw brings wealth. During the Meiji (1868–1912) and Taisho (1912–1926) periods, shops used cat signs to lure customers. Today, Maneki Neko appear in various forms, including keychains and calendars. The 2020 Local Fortune Cat project by Kakinuma dolls features 19 cats made from region-specific fabrics. Gotokuji Temple in Tokyo and Tokoname's Manekineko-dori Street are notable sites. Western viewers often mistake the raised paw for waving, but in Japan it signifies beckoning.