Ladies and gentlemen, meet the cat...

Who doesn't recognize the charming figure of a cat with a raised paw, often greeting us at the entrance of an Asian restaurant or store? Maneki-neko (招き猫 – literally "beckoning cat") with its characteristic bell around its neck and a golden coin in its paw has become an international symbol of luck and prosperity. It draws attention with its cheerful expression and gesture, which – although it may appear to be waving – is actually an Asian gesture of beckoning and inviting. It is estimated that hundreds of thousands of maneki-neko figures are sold worldwide every month, while in Japan alone, over two million ceramic versions are produced annually in Aichi Prefecture. The Gōtoku-ji Temple, considered the birthplace of this symbol, attracts around half a million visitors each year, who leave their figurines there in hopes of good fortune.

However, fewer people are aware of the dark and bloody past behind this seemingly cheerful symbol. The maneki-neko was born not only as a decorative item but also as a character in stories of life and death, faith, and destiny. Many versions of legends speak of supernatural events and the lives of people whose fates were forever changed by an enigmatic cat. Some of these tales speak of miraculous fortune and gratitude, while others conceal dark stories filled with horror and tragedy. In these darker legends, the cat raises its paw at a crucial moment – sometimes to offer a last chance, sometimes to warn of impending danger.

One of the darker legends tells the story of an oiran (courtesan) named Usugumo, whose beloved cat was killed by the owner of a pleasure house. Believing in rumors about the cat's supposed demonic nature, the owner cut off its head... yet even in death, the cat's severed head took revenge. There’s also the tale of a samurai miraculously saved by a cat, tales of bakeneko (shape-shifting cats) returning in nightmares, and other stories – but how much truth do they hold? Let’s explore the history of the golden "beckoning cat," tracing its origins all the way back to the medieval Kamakura period.

What Does the Name Maneki-Neko Mean?

The name maneki-neko (招き猫), although exotic-sounding, is quite literal in meaning. It consists of two kanji characters: 招き (maneki), meaning "invitation" or "beckoning," and 猫 (neko), meaning "cat." The name can thus be translated as "inviting cat," which perfectly reflects its role as a talisman designed to attract luck, customers, or wealth.

Why Does the Cat 'Beckon' Instead of 'Wave'?

Here is where cultural differences come into play. To many people from Western countries, the gesture performed by maneki-neko looks like a wave of farewell. However, in Japan and Korea, the way of beckoning is quite different from that in the West. In Japan, people beckon by raising their hand with the palm facing downward and repeatedly folding their fingers inward – a motion that may appear to an unfamiliar eye as the opposite of waving goodbye. Therefore, the cat figurine with a raised paw is not "waving" but rather inviting luck, customers, or prosperity.

Interestingly, some versions of maneki-neko sold in Western markets have the paw positioned in a way that mimics a Western-style beckoning gesture – with the palm facing upward. This adaptation is meant to make the symbolism more accessible to other cultures. However, one must be cautious – such a gesture would be considered quite rude back in Japan!

A Chinese Lucky Cat? Where Does the Misunderstanding Come From?

Although maneki-neko is a 100% Japanese creation, many people – especially outside of Asia – mistakenly attribute it to China. The figurine’s popularity in Chinatown districts around the world has led to it often being referred to as the "Chinese lucky cat" (or in Chinese: 招财猫 – zhāo cái māo, meaning "wealth-attracting cat"). These figurines are indeed commonly found in Chinese-run shops and restaurants, but their history and symbolism are deeply rooted in Japanese folklore.

In Chinese culture, however, maneki-neko has also gained popularity, especially in the gold-colored version, symbolizing wealth. In Hong Kong and Taiwan, the cat figure often appears alongside traditional Chinese charms, further adding to the confusion. Meanwhile, the true maneki-neko originates from temples such as Gōtoku-ji and Imado in Tokyo, and its legend is one of the most fascinating examples of Japanese fantastic tales.

So next time you see a golden cat near a cash register, remember – it's not Chinese but a Japanese guardian of fortune. And it's not saying goodbye – it's inviting you in.

What Does the Beckoning Cat Look Like?

Imagine a cat gracefully seated by the entrance of a shop or restaurant (after all, cats do everything with grace). It sits calmly, as if it knows all the secrets of the universe, and its paw – raised high – performs a subtle, inviting gesture. This is maneki-neko in its full glory. It is usually depicted as a Japanese bobtail, with a short tail resembling a fluffy pompom. Its fur gleams with snowy white or traditional tricolor mike markings, which in Japan are considered especially lucky.

The Inviting Paw – Different Gestures, Different Fortunes

But not every figurine invites in the same way. A raised right paw is said to attract wealth and prosperity – the perfect choice for businesses aiming to increase profits. A raised left paw, on the other hand, invites happiness, friends, and customers, which is why it often appears in restaurant and shop windows. Interestingly, some maneki-neko raise both paws, as if saying, "Come one, come all – happiness and success await!" These double-pawed cats are considered a "combo" of luck, though in Japan, they might be seen as a bit over the top.

Colors of Fortune

It's not just gestures that carry meaning – colors do too. The classic white symbolizes general prosperity and harmony. A black maneki-neko serves as a protective talisman, warding off evil and negative energy. Want to focus on health? Choose a red one. Gold, of course, is a straightforward declaration of "I want wealth!" For romantics, there's pink, which brings success in love. There's even a blue version associated with road safety.

Maneki-neko, with its array of meanings and forms, continues to be a living symbol of Japanese culture, offering both tradition and magic to those who believe in its quiet, beckoning power.

Maneki-Neko in the Modern World

Over the years, maneki-neko has undergone numerous transformations to adapt to contemporary times. You can now spot solar-powered plastic cats whose paws gently move all day long, as if tirelessly inviting good fortune. In certain regions, such as Tokoname in Aichi Prefecture, you might even come across giant ceramic maneki-neko adorning the streets like city guardians. There are also versions of the figurine that serve as novelty items: keychains, piggy banks, and even candleholders.

The History of Maneki-Neko

The Origins of the Legend – Edo, Temples, and Mysterious Cats

It’s the 17th century, the Edo period. Tokyo – then known as Edo – is bustling with life, and the air is filled with the scent of incense from temples scattered across the city. In one of these temples, Gōtoku-ji, a humble monk named Kōken meditates under the shade of tall trees. By his side is a white cat with a short bobtail, his silent companion during days of solitary contemplation.

One day, Ii Naotaka, the daimyō of Hikone, passes through the temple gates while returning from a hunting trip. At that moment, a heavy rainstorm begins, and thunder rumbles in the distance. The cat, named Tama, raises its paw in a beckoning gesture. Curious, the lord approaches the cat, and mere moments later, a lightning bolt strikes the spot where he had just been standing. Recognizing this as a miracle, Naotaka donates funds to support the struggling temple. Thus, the legend of maneki-neko is born, with Tama becoming a patron of good fortune.

Similar stories are told in other parts of Tokyo (the most colorful ones will be explored later in this article). Not every tale ends happily, and many are surprisingly dark and even bloody.

New Era

By the mid-19th century, maneki-neko had become increasingly visible on the streets of Edo. In 1852, a colorful ukiyo-e woodblock print by Utagawa Hiroshige depicts a market stall filled with ceramic cat figurines, known as maru-shime no neko. These early maneki-neko, however, look slightly different from the ones we recognize today – they do not yet hold golden coins but already wear bells around their necks.

The production of ceramic figurines primarily takes place in Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and in Aichi Prefecture, where regions like Tokoname and Seto specialize in ceramic craftsmanship. Production becomes even more widespread during the Meiji era (1868–1912), as modern manufacturing techniques, including plaster molds, are developed. During this period, maneki-neko gains new accessories, particularly the koban gold coin, symbolizing wealth.

Spreading Beyond Japan

At the end of the 19th century, Japan opens up to the world, and maneki-neko begins its journey beyond the country’s borders. Asian migrants bring the figurines to Chinatowns in various parts of the globe – from San Francisco to London. In these bustling districts, filled with tea houses and market stalls, maneki-neko is often mistakenly identified as the "Chinese lucky cat" (招财猫, zhāo cái māo).

In the United States, maneki-neko gains particular popularity during the 1980s and 1990s, alongside the boom of Japanese pop culture, known as "Cool Japan". The iconic figurine starts appearing on screens in films, video games, and anime. One of the most recognizable iterations of maneki-neko is Meowth from the Pokémon series, whose special move, "Pay Day," literally generates money during battles.

Today, maneki-neko can be found almost everywhere. In Tokyo, you’ll encounter it not only in temples like Gōtoku-ji but also on market streets and vendor stalls. In Aichi Prefecture, Manekineko-dori ("Beckoning Cat Street") in Tokoname is lined with dozens of large ceramic cats. In the U.S., the Lucky Cat Museum in Cincinnati boasts a collection of over 2,000 versions of the figurine. Even in Hanoi, Vietnam, murals feature its characteristic silhouette.

Four Legends of the Beckoning Cat

Not every cat in Japanese folklore is a terrifying bakeneko (more on bakeneko here: ...), a creature that brings horror, misfortune, and death. Some cats, like those in the legends of maneki-neko, bring luck, protection, and hope, appearing in moments of trial. Sometimes they save people from accidental death, guide the lost to safety, or bring fortune to the impoverished. Their stories are filled with extraordinary events, miraculous coincidences, and moments where destiny seems to whisper through the raised paw. Let’s explore how these legends envisioned the beginnings of our hero – maneki-neko.

The Legend of Daimyō Ii Naotaka and the Cat Tama of Gōtoku-ji

The year is 1633, during the Edo period. The morning air is crisp, and the sky above the hills of Setagaya is clear, but locals know that the weather here can change in an instant. Ii Naotaka, a powerful daimyō of the Ii clan, returns from a falconry expedition (more on falconry here: ...) with his entourage. After a grueling trek through dense forests, his party approaches the small Gōtoku-ji Temple, led by a poor monk.

At that moment, a small white cat with intelligent eyes steps through the temple gates, as if coming to greet the visitors. The monk calls the cat Tama, who raises its paw in a beckoning gesture, inviting the lord inside. Intrigued, Naotaka dismounts his horse and takes a few steps closer to observe the curious creature. Just moments later, the sky darkens, thunder roars, and lightning strikes the very spot where the lord had stood moments before. His horse collapses, struck by the lightning, and a tree crashes to the ground. Naotaka, however, remains unharmed, having moved closer to the cat just seconds earlier.

Shaken, the daimyō perceives this as a miracle. Grateful for his life being saved, he donates substantial funds to support the temple. Gōtoku-ji becomes the ancestral prayer site of his family, and Tama is enshrined as a symbol of good fortune. To this day, the temple grounds are filled with thousands of maneki-neko statues, attracting pilgrims from all over the world.

The Legend of the Poor Woman from Imado

At the end of the Edo period, in one of the impoverished districts of Asakusa known as Imado, there lived a woman whose life was marked by misfortune. Each day was a struggle for survival, and eventually, she no longer had anything to feed her beloved cat. With a heavy heart, she saw no other choice but to abandon the animal.

That night, as she lay on the floor of her dilapidated home, the cat appeared to her in a dream. “Make a figure of me out of clay and sell it. I will bring you fortune,” the cat said in a calm, gentle voice. Initially doubting the dream’s message, the woman eventually decided to give it a try.

She crafted a few simple figurines using local Imado-yaki ceramics and displayed them for sale near the gates of Asakusa Temple. To her astonishment, people began buying them, believing them to be lucky talismans. Her life was transformed as she became wealthy, and the legend of the beckoning cat spread across Edo.

The Legend of the Warrior Ōta Dōkan

Our story now takes us to the 15th century, a time of bloody conflicts among warring clans vying for control of the Kantō region. Ōta Dōkan, a renowned strategist and the builder of Edo Castle (now the Imperial Palace in Tokyo), finds himself trapped in an ambush by Toshima clan forces during a battle on the Ekodahara Plains. As dusk falls, Dōkan loses his bearings amidst the wooded hills and foggy fields.

Suddenly, in the thick undergrowth, he spots a pair of glowing eyes—a black cat appears out of nowhere and beckons him with a raised paw. Skeptical but desperate, Dōkan decides to follow the animal. The cat leads him to the nearby Jishōin Temple, where he finds shelter and allies. Thanks to this chance encounter, Dōkan regroups his forces and ultimately triumphs in the battle. Out of gratitude, the warrior commissions a statue of the cat, which becomes a local symbol of protection in times of hardship.

The Legend of the Courtesan Usugumo

During the Genroku era (1688–1704), in the pleasure district of Yoshiwara in Edo, lived a beautiful oiran (high-ranking courtesan) named Usugumo. Her life was one of opulence but also rife with rivalry and danger. Her most loyal companion was a cat named Tama, who was always by her side. One day, malicious rumors spread that Tama might be possessed by demonic forces—lies orchestrated by a jealous rival within the brothel.

The brothel owner, frightened by the rumors, decided to get rid of the cat. In a moment of panic, he beheaded Tama. To everyone's horror, the severed head flew toward a nearby toilet, where a giant snake lay hidden, waiting to ambush Usugumo, who was unknowingly heading there. In its final act of sacrifice, Tama's head killed the snake, saving her mistress's life. Heartbroken by the loss of her beloved pet, Usugumo received a wooden sculpture of the cat from one of her clients to commemorate the tragic event.

This statue became an inspiration for maneki-neko figurines, and the tale of Tama's heroism endured as a symbol of protection against evil forces.

Maneki-Neko Facts

Production Centers – Tokoname and Seto as Ceramic Capitals

For centuries, the production of maneki-neko has been concentrated in a few regions of Japan, particularly the cities of Tokoname and Seto in Aichi Prefecture, known for their rich ceramic traditions. Tokoname, one of Japan’s "six ancient kilns" (六古窯 – rokko-yō), has specialized in ceramic craftsmanship since the Heian period. The city attracts tourists to Manekineko-dōri Street, where giant beckoning cat statues stand as sentinels. Each year, tens of thousands of ceramic maneki-neko are produced there, destined for both the Japanese and international markets.

Types of Maneki-Neko – From Ceramics to Electronics

Maneki-neko come in various forms to cater to different tastes and needs. The most traditional versions are ceramic figurines crafted using centuries-old techniques. There are also plastic versions, often equipped with solar mechanisms that move their paws. Additionally, maneki-neko appear as decorative gadgets, such as keychains, piggy banks, and candleholders. In modern interpretations, these cats are also used as elements of pop culture and advertising.

Festivals and Events – The Festival of Lucky Cats

Every year on September 29, the Maneki-Neko Festival (来る福招き猫祭り – Kuru Fuku Maneki-neko Matsuri) is celebrated in various Japanese cities, including Ise in Mie Prefecture, Seto in Aichi, and Shimabara in Nagasaki. During these events, people parade through the streets with cat figurines, participate in ceramic workshops, and attend blessing ceremonies for the statues. The festival aims to attract luck and prosperity for the coming year. In many cities, there are also contests for the most beautifully decorated maneki-neko.

Local Mascots – Hikonyan and Modern Interpretations

One of the most recognizable modern interpretations of maneki-neko is Hikonyan, a mascot created in 2007 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Hikone Castle in Shiga Prefecture. Hikonyan is an adorable white cat wearing a samurai helmet, referencing the legend of Ii Naotaka and the cat from Gōtoku-ji. Hikonyan has become a beloved icon throughout Japan, attracting tourists to Hikone and serving as a marketing symbol.

Maneki-Neko in Pop Culture

We’ve all seen maneki-neko featured in countless forms of pop culture—manga, anime, video games, as well as in more traditional representations in kabuki theater, Shinto shrines, and store decorations. Here are a few examples:

"The Cat Returns" (Neko no Ongaeshi) – Studio Ghibli (2002)

The protagonist, Haru, saves a cat who turns out to be a prince from the Cat Kingdom. In gratitude, the cats invite her to their world, where she faces both danger and adventure. The Cat King exhibits traits reminiscent of maneki-neko, and themes of luck and destiny play a central role in the story.

"Sailor Moon" (1992–1997)

The character Luna, a black cat companion to the main protagonist Usagi Tsukino, was inspired by both the myths of bakeneko and maneki-neko. Luna serves as a guardian and guide, providing crucial advice and good fortune to the heroines during their battles against the forces of evil. In some episodes, maneki-neko appears as a symbolic background element associated with magic and protection.

"Animal Crossing"

In this popular game, players can collect various decorative items, including maneki-neko figurines. Each figurine has a different color and symbolism, encouraging exploration of Japanese culture and traditions. The maneki-neko often symbolizes luck and prosperity growth within the game.

"Persona 5"

The game contains numerous references to Japanese culture, and maneki-neko can be seen as part of the environment or as a decoration in certain locations. Additionally, the character Morgana, the protagonist's feline companion, serves a role similar to that of a maneki-neko, offering luck and assistance during difficult moments. (Okay, it’s debatable whether Morgana truly brings luck, but at least he's quite charming!)

Modern and Traditional Cats

Maneki-neko is a symbol that has evolved with Japan’s history and has spread its presence worldwide. Interestingly, its influence can also be seen in the business world. In some Japanese corporations, maneki-neko is treated as a talisman of success, often placed in the offices of senior management. Modern maneki-neko figurines have even embraced technology—there are versions equipped with NFC modules, allowing users to make contactless payments or receive promotional information in stores. Maneki-neko also frequently appears in advertising campaigns and marketing initiatives as a globally recognized symbol of prosperity.

Some fun fact - there are as many as eight different paw positions for maneki-neko, each with a slightly different meaning. For instance, figurines with a paw pointing slightly forward instead of upward are believed to bring quick business decisions, while maneki-neko holding a koi fish (鯉, carp) symbolize long-term harmony and success. Other variants include figurines with a paw resting to the side, said to ensure peace and stability, or with a paw gently curved inward, which invites familial happiness and health. The version with both paws raised, offering "double protection," is a Western invention.

Maneki-neko remains a vibrant symbol of Japanese culture, blending tradition, magic, and hope for a better future—perhaps it’s time to invite one into your life too?

So let’s cherish these cheerful little creatures—after all, like any cat, maneki-neko will probably do whatever it pleases anyway. But who knows? Maybe, if we’re lucky, it’ll bring us fortune faster than you can say, “Kamehameha!”

>> SEE ALSO SIMILAR ARTICLES:

The Meowing Kingdom of Tashirojima - An Island Ruled by Cats

Vengeful Cat Demons in Japanese Legends: The Sinister Bakeneko

Japanese Kitsune – Demonic and Sacred Foxes Manipulating the Lives of Unaware Humans

Shiba Inu – A Companion of Medieval Samurai and a Star of the Internet

Akita Inu – A Loyal Companion Who Survived Japan’s Hunters, Samurai, and Wars

"Strong Japanese Women"

see book by the author

of the page

    未開    ソビエライ

 An enthusiast of Asian culture with a deep appreciation for the diverse philosophies of the world. By education, a psychologist and philologist specializing in Korean studies. At heart, a programmer (primarily for Android) and a passionate technology enthusiast, as well as a practitioner of Zen and mono no aware. In moments of tranquility, adheres to a disciplined lifestyle, firmly believing that perseverance, continuous personal growth, and dedication to one's passions are the wisest paths in life. Author of the book "Strong Women of Japan" (>>see more)

Personal motto:

"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest." - Albert Einstein (probably)

  Mike Soray

   (aka Michał Sobieraj)

未開    ソビエライ

 An enthusiast of Asian culture with a deep appreciation for the diverse philosophies of the world. By education, a psychologist and philologist specializing in Korean studies. At heart, a programmer (primarily for Android) and a passionate technology enthusiast, as well as a practitioner of Zen and mono no aware. In moments of tranquility, adheres to a disciplined lifestyle, firmly believing that perseverance, continuous personal growth, and dedication to one's passions are the wisest paths in life. Author of the book "Strong Women of Japan" (>>see more)

Personal motto:

"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest." - Albert Einstein (probably)

Mike Soray

(aka Michał Sobieraj)

Write us...

Ciechanów, Polska

dr.imyon@gmail.com

___________________

inari.smart

Would you like to share your thoughts or feedback about our website or app? Leave us a message, and we’ll get back to you quickly. We value your perspective!