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22/08/2014

Gotoku-ji: Temple for Cat Lovers

A serene temple holding the origin of the lucky cat

Por Chelsea Bailey

Community writer

After walking on a long pathway to get away from the neighborhood, you reach the large, main gate to the temple.

The first walkway upon entering the temple grounds, filled with lush greenery.

A striking incense burner at the end of the walkway. Burning incense, in order to purify surroundings during prayer, is an important aspect of religious and spiritual practices of the Shinto and Buddhist religions.

The three-tiered pagoda, referred to in Japanese as sanju-no-to. On the second tier, you can see two hidden cats placed. Pagodas always have an uneven number of tiers and are known as the "house of worship" making it a desired attraction on temple grounds.

These wooden prayer plaques, known as ema, are used by Shinto worshippers to record their prayers or desired wishes. All of the plaques have maneki neko designs painted on them in respect to the maneki neko shrine directly behind it.

A shrine in the Gotoku-ji's grounds dedicated to the maneki neko. The popular cat symbolizes bringing wealth and prosperity to its owner, which is why they are commonly seen at the entrance of Japanese shops, restaurants and homes.

At least 1,000 identical maneki neko statues are placed closely together, making this shrine definitely suitable for cat lovers.

Prayer grounds right next to the shrine dedicated to the maneki neko. Praying etiquette of washing hands, ringing the bell and clapping of hands is commonly demonstrated here.

Gotoku-ji has a cemetery filled with statues of various gods. Commonly you will see Japanese residents paying a visit to loved ones, making it a quiet and peaceful scenery.

Maneki neko, meaning "beckoning cat," is believed to bring prosperity and luck to its owner. While there are various beliefs on where this popular Japanese figurine originated, the most ubiquitous story holds Gotoku-ji as its origin. Located in a peaceful suburb of Setagaya, Gotoku-ji is only a ten minute walk from Miyanozaka Station (Setagaya Line). Due to being located in a quiet part of town, the temple is rarely busy, conducive to a personal experience. Filled with lush trees, ornate architecture, and, of course, lots of cats, you will experience a temple with a unique touch.

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Chelsea Bailey

Por Chelsea Bailey

Community writer

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