🗺️ Gōtokuji豪徳寺

Located in Setagaya, Tokyo, the Sōtō Zen temple is said to be the origin of the "Maneki-neko" or "beckoning cat." Founded in 1480 by the lord of Setagaya Castle, Kira Masatada, the temple was originally named Kōdoku-in and was renamed Gōtoku-ji in 1659. It later became the family temple of the Ii clan, the lords of Hikone, and houses the graves of generations of the Ii family, along with numerous cultural heritage sites related to them. The connection between Gōtoku-ji and the Ii family is attributed to a cat. It is said that when Ii Naotaka, the lord of Hikone, passed by the temple, he saw a cat waving at him and decided to enter the temple, thus avoiding a sudden thunderstorm. Feeling fortunate, Ii Naotaka renovated and funded Gōtoku-ji. Within Gōtoku-ji, the cat that brings good fortune is referred to as "Maneki-neko" and is worshipped. Today, many Maneki-neko figures are placed throughout the temple grounds. Thousands of Maneki-neko donated by visitors are lined up in the offering hall, and sculptures of Maneki-neko are also displayed next to the twelve zodiac signs of the three-storied pagoda. After visiting, it is recommended to take a leisurely stroll in the lush temple grounds while searching for the Maneki-neko hidden in various places.

A historic temple famous for being the origin of the "Maneki-neko" (招福貓). It is said to have originated from a cat that protected Ii Naotaka from a thunderstorm. This temple serves as the Edo family temple of the Ii clan and houses cultural properties related to the Ii family. Throughout the temple, you can find various sizes of Maneki-neko dedicated everywhere.