Gotokuji temple (??? in kanji) is well known across Japan as the supposed origin of Maneki-neko, the ?beckoning cat? figurine which is said to bring good fortune and success to its owner if kept in their bedroom or place of study.
Many people across the world mistakenly believe that this good luck talisman is Chinese in origin due to its popularity among Chinese and Vietnamese communities. However, the birthplace of Maneki-neko is undoubtedly in Japan, and one of the most popular legends links it directly to Gotojuki.

For this reason, you?ll encounter thousands of beckoning cats during a visit to Gotojuki, more than at any other temple in Japan. The figurines are made using a variety of materials, including wood, stone, metal, and porcelain, and come in a variety of colors, although the traditional white variation remains the most popular. The history of Gotokuji temple
Although not as old as Tokyo?s Sensoji Temple, the history of Gotokuji temple dates back to 1680-81, when it was erected by the fifth sh?gun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, in honor of his mother.
While many of Tokyo?s temples, including Sensoji, were largely destroyed during World War II and had to be later rebuilt, Gotokuji?s impressive 3-story wooden pagoda survived the American air raids intact.
Gotokuji temple, Tokyo
There is also a historic cemetery on the temple grounds where many famous Japanese figures are buried, including the karate master ?yama Masutatsu and several previous Prime Ministers, as well as a ...