Gotokuji Temple

The Basics

Legend has it that the maneki-neko originated in the Edo period, when a feudal lord was beckoned into a temple by a cat. Thus sheltered from a thunderstorm, the grateful lord rebuilt the temple, which became Gotoku-ji. Since then, people have offered maneki-neko to the temple as a sign of gratitude for good fortune.

For a deeper insight into the temple and its legends and rituals, you can visit on a guided tour. Guides can also introduce you to the surrounding attractions that many visitors overlook in their rush to reach the cat temple. Other visitors make the trip purely for the photo opportunities of thousands of cute cat figurines with their paws aloft.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There is no admission charge to enter the temple.

• You can purchase mani-neko at the temple’s small souvenir shop; prices vary according to the size of the cat.

• After wishing on your cat for good luck, leave it at the temple or keep it until your wish is fulfilled—just don’t forget to return it later by way of thanks (hono).

• Wheelchairs can traverse the temple’s cobbled grounds, guide and service dogs are welcome, and there is a wheelchair-accessible restroom.

How to Get There

Gotoku-ji is located in Tokyo’s quiet special ward of Setagaya, somewhat off the beaten path in the southwest of the city. The easiest way to get there is by taking the Odakyu Odawara Line to Gotokuji station—from Shinjuku the journey takes 15 minutes. Gotokuji Station is less than a 10-minute walk from the temple.

When to Get There

Opening hours at Gotoku-ji are typically from 6am to 6pm, every day. Try to get there as early as possible to beat the crowds. As the majority of hono offerings take place during the Japanese New Year, this is the best time to visit to see as many maneki-neko as possible. As with many places in Tokyo, the temple is especially attractive during cherry blossom season in the spring.

Fortunes and Wishes

Alongside cats, the temple’s souvenir store also sells omikuji, fortunes written on strips of paper; English-speaking staff should be able to translate them for you. Visitors can also purchase wooden ema plaques (decorated with maneki-neko) on which you can write down your wishes. After writing your wish, hang your plaque on the shrine’s wall in the hope that it comes true.

Ways to explore

Legend has it that the maneki-neko originated in the Edo period (17th–19th centuries), when a feudal lord was beckoned into a temple by a cat, where he sheltered from a thunderstorm. The grateful lord rebuilt the temple, which became Gotoku-ji. Since then, people have offered maneki-neko to the temple as a sign of gratitude for good fortune.

For a deeper insight into the temple and its legends and rituals, visit on a guided tour, which can also introduce surrounding attractions. Some visitors make the trip purely for the photo opportunities of thousands of cute cat figurines with their paws aloft.

Accessibility

Access to the temple is barrier free.

Age limits

Kids can enjoy searching for the biggest or smallest maneki-neko, those with particular expressions, or even real cats wandering the grounds.

What to pack

Sun umbrella (a common accessory in Japan) when appropriate, coins for temple offerings

What to wear

Comfortable shoes and season-appropriate clothing, as this temple complex is mostly outdoors

Not allowed

Loud or disruptive behavior—this is a site of worship

Amenities

Tea room, souvenir shop

Address

Gotoku-ji is located in Tokyo’s quiet Setagaya ward, somewhat off the beaten path in the southwest of the city. The best way to get there is by public transportation or on a tour.

Driving

Driving in Tokyo isn’t recommended, due to the traffic and difficulty of parking. There are some paid parking lots near the temple, but they can be busy and you may need to search for a while.

Public transportation

The easiest way to reach Gotoku-ji is by taking the Odakyu Odawara Line to Gotokuji Station, 15 minutes from Shinjuku. Gotokuji Station is a 10–15-minute walk from the temple.

Best times to visit

Opening hours at Gotoku-ji are typically from 6am to 5pm every day. The temple office, which sells souvenirs, is open from 8am to 3pm.

Best days to visit

The temple is likely to be busier on the weekends, so visit mid-week for a quieter experience.

Best months to visit

As with many places in Tokyo, the temple is especially attractive during cherry blossom season in the spring (March–April).

Special events

As the majority of offerings take place during the New Year, this is the best time to visit to see as many maneki-neko as possible.