Gotokuji Temple: The Unique Cat Temple In Tokyo

The cute cat temple in Tokyo

Gotokuji temple is a cute temple tucked away in the suburbs of Tokyo. In that sense, its a great alternative to the big city feels of Shinjuku and Shibuya. Gotokuji Temple has become famous for its many, many, lucky cats. If you’re looking to see something a little unique and different this is a great spot to visit! You will also be able to find cats of all different sizes. Plus, they’re so adorable! How could you say no?

But beware cat lovers – you may be overwhelmed with sadness when you see the broken and neglected ceramic cats, sitting at the back of the collection, covered in moss. Apart from that, it is a quirky and fun place to visit for a day trip in Tokyo that you could complete in 1-2 hours. If you’re interested in seeing this marvellous cat temple, read on!

A broken cat.

What does the Japanese cat statue mean?

The Japanese cat statue is called maneki-neko in Japanese. The temple holds the claim that the maneki-neko originated from here. The maneki-neko is known as the beckoning cat or the lucky cat. It is thought to bring good fortune and success, which is why you often see them in cafes and restaurants by the till!

View from the top of the lucky cat statues
Please look but don’t touch!

What Is there to do at Gotokuji Temple?

Unlike most temples in Tokyo, Gotokuji temple (護国寺 in kanji) managed to survive the air raids on Tokyo during the world war. It has a beautiful 3-story wooden pagoda original pagoda that is worth taking a look at. It is located as you walk towards the temple.

Looking up at the Pagoda
The pagoda at Gotokuji Temple.

The main attraction, however, is the maneki-neko statues. There are located around the outside of the temple. You can bring your own maneki-neko to leave at the shrine, or you can buy one from the temple shop. The prices range from 300 yen to 5000 yen. You can also buy one to bring home!

The other great thing about visiting Gotokuji temple is that it is a much more authentic experience as it is not as touristy as other popular temples and shrines. As such, it is great for people watching. It will give you some insight into the daily lives of real people in Tokyo.

This shows a shrine surrounded by lucky cats.
As a crazy cat lady, this is my vibe.

When is the best time to go to Gotokuji Temple?

If you are visiting at the end of winter/beginning of spring (late February or early March) there are a few plum trees in the entrance that are stunning. This spot is also popular during autumn as the backdrop of autumn leaves and pagoda are a great photo opportunity. If you’re also looking for great spots around Tokyo for cherry blossom season, you can find read my post The Best Spots To Enjoy Sakura (Cherry Blossoms) In Tokyo.

So many cats!
The temple plaques hanging are all cat related!

How do you get to Gotokuji Temple?

Gotokuji is a hidden gem because it is not in the usual tourist locations. It is kinda in the middle of nowhere. You will need to make it to Gotokuji Station if you are traveling by train. This station is serviced by the Odakyu line which means its accessible from Shinjuku Station. There is also a café with vegan options nearby called Gavy.

A collection of lucky cat statues at Gotokuji Temple
A closeup of the different sizes of cats.
Gotokuji Temple cats
So many cats at the temple.

Best places to book your trip

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🖤 Book a hotel with Booking.com (this is my favourite website to book hotels)

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🖤 Book lounge access for your airport with Priority Pass (I’m an airport lounge girlie)

🖤 Find somewhere to leave your storage with Radical Storage

VERDICT

This is a cute, authentic experience in Tokyo

If you’re living in Tokyo or you’re looking for an alternative to the big tourist attractions this is a great spot. If you are traveling to Japan in the future and you value more authentic experiences than the usual tourist trap, this is a great place to really see Tokyo. Love authentic experiences? I highly recommend checking out the Wisteria at Hie Shrine in Tokyo or Ehime in Shikoku Island.

Thanks for reading!

I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you’re on Instagram, you can find me over here: @apicturesquelife and I’d be happy to connect!
xoxo,

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  1. Pingback: Authentic Tokyo Experience: Wisteria at the Stunning Hie Shrine

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