The Maneki Neko (beckoning or welcoming cat) is popular in Japan as a lucky charm that invites happiness.
So, many people know, that this cute cat statues with its little waving claw is a good luck charm. But do you know the history of Maneki Neko?
Here it is (and it's so cute ^^):
Here's an actual picture of Goutokuji Temple and of the many Maneki Nekos you can find there! ^^
In the 17th century, there was a rundown and poverty-stricken temple in Tokyo. The temple's priest was very poor, but he shared what little food he had with his pet cat, Tama.
One day, a wealthy and important man was caught in a storm while hunting and he took refuge under a big tree near the temple. While he waited for the storm to pass, the man noticed a cat beckoning him to come inside the temple gate. This was so startling that he left the shelter of the tree to have a closer look at this unusual cat. At that moment, the tree was struck by lighting.
As a result, the wealthy man became friends with the poor priest, and the temple became prosperous. The priest and his cat never went hungry again.
When Tama died he was buried in the Goutokuji Temple's cat cemetery with respect and love, and the Maneki Neko was made in honor of him.
One day, a wealthy and important man was caught in a storm while hunting and he took refuge under a big tree near the temple. While he waited for the storm to pass, the man noticed a cat beckoning him to come inside the temple gate. This was so startling that he left the shelter of the tree to have a closer look at this unusual cat. At that moment, the tree was struck by lighting.
As a result, the wealthy man became friends with the poor priest, and the temple became prosperous. The priest and his cat never went hungry again.
When Tama died he was buried in the Goutokuji Temple's cat cemetery with respect and love, and the Maneki Neko was made in honor of him.
You can buy Maneki Neko figurines and little statues in many different variations, so here you have a little list about the meanings of the different variations.
Left paw raised: invites visitors or in business, customers
Right paw raised: invites money and good fortune
Both paws raised: protects home or business
White neko: stands for goodness and purity
Black neko: wards off evil
Pink or red neko: brings love and happiness
Gold neko: invites wealth and prosperity
Neko with coin in paw: invites financial gain
Neko with fish in paw: another invitation to prosperity
Tri-color or calico: luck, luck, luck (Because male calico cats are rare, they are revered as "lucky cats" among sailors around the world, and among Maneki Neko collectors)
The Japanese popular idol group Arashi has made a video about Maneki Neko and coming to Japan, too. It's really really cute and you should watch it! ^^
Maybe you want to have your own, too! ^^
By: Vanessa (Asakusa)
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