Gotokuji Temple, Tokyo - Shofuku-den, Gotokuji Temple, Setagaya City, Tokyo, Japan
1 / 10

Gotokuji Temple Tokyo

4.5
·8k reviews·Setagaya City, Japan

Tokyo's enchanting Gotokuji Temple, the birthplace of the Maneki-neko, where thousands of lucky cats await your wishes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daylight hours

See the cats in their full glory

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Gotokuji Temple, Tokyo - Shofuku-den, Gotokuji Temple, Setagaya City, Tokyo, Japan

Gotokuji Temple Tokyo

Best Time

Daylight hours

See the cats in their full glory

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Tokyo's enchanting Gotokuji Temple, the birthplace of the Maneki-neko, where thousands of lucky cats await your wishes.

4.5
(8k reviews)

"It's a sea of waving cats, offering endless unique photo opportunities!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Before Closing

The temple shop closes in the late afternoon. Don't miss your chance to buy a lucky cat souvenir!

🚆 Catch the Lucky Cat Train

Look for the special Odakyu Line trains decorated with Maneki-neko for a fun ride to the temple.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sea of Maneki-neko

Sea of Maneki-neko

Main temple grounds

Thousands of beckoning cat statues, each representing a fulfilled wish, create an unforgettable, whimsical spectacle.

The Lucky Cat Train

The Lucky Cat Train

Odakyu Line

Keep an eye out for the special Odakyu Line trains adorned with Maneki-neko designs for a charming journey to the temple.

Temple Shop Souvenirs

Temple Shop Souvenirs

Temple entrance

Purchase your own Maneki-neko to bring home good fortune, but be mindful of closing times .

TikTok

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Lucky Cats

Visit Gotokuji Temple during daylight hours to fully appreciate the thousands of Maneki-neko statues. The temple shop, where you can purchase your own lucky cat, closes in the late afternoon, so plan accordingly to avoid disappointment.TikTok

Embrace the Journey

Gotokuji Temple is located in a residential area, offering a glimpse into local Tokyo life. Consider combining your visit with nearby neighborhoods like Shimokitazawa for a more immersive experience.Reddit

Best Times

When
Daylight hours
Why
See the cats in their full glory
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @EMINEM If there is only ONE thing you do in Tokyo from all of my videos, let it be this!!!!! I 100% believe in it 🐱✨ But I can’t tell you what my new wish is otherwise it might not come t...
@samjtodd
80.1K likes • 642.5K views

🎯 Arrive Before Closing

The temple shop closes in the late afternoon. Don't miss your chance to buy a lucky cat souvenir! TikTok

🚆 Catch the Lucky Cat Train

Look for the special Odakyu Line trains decorated with Maneki-neko for a fun ride to the temple. Reddit

My favorite hidden tokyo neighborhood ✨🍜 📍Gotokuji 豪徳寺 #tokyo #japan #hiddengems #travelguide #tokyotravel #tokyocoffee #thrift
@itsezcape
64.5K likes • 776.4K views
Tucked away in a quiet Tokyo suburb is Gotokuji Temple, said to be the birthplace of the lucky cat (maneki-neko)😽 This neighbourhood was so quiet and peaceful… so I was totally caught off guard when ...
picsbychii
572 likes • 8.3K views

☕ Nearby Coffee Stop

Grab a coffee at Iron Coffee nearby for good brews and a friendly owner. Reddit

🚶 Explore the Neighborhood

Gotokuji is in a quiet residential area. Combine with Shimokitazawa for a fuller day. Reddit

Make sure to check the train schedule before going so you can take the lucky cat train 🐈 We went too late and only made it there after the temple shop closed and we didn’t manage to get any souvenirs...
@othercharlyn
51.5K likes • 337.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Before Closing

The temple shop closes in the late afternoon. Don't miss your chance to buy a lucky cat souvenir! TikTok

🚆 Catch the Lucky Cat Train

Look for the special Odakyu Line trains decorated with Maneki-neko for a fun ride to the temple. Reddit

☕ Nearby Coffee Stop

Grab a coffee at Iron Coffee nearby for good brews and a friendly owner. Reddit

🚶 Explore the Neighborhood

Gotokuji is in a quiet residential area. Combine with Shimokitazawa for a fuller day. Reddit

📸 Respectful Photography

Capture the charm, but be mindful of the sacred space and other visitors. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Gotokuji Temple's unique charm and the overwhelming sight of thousands of lucky cats, calling it a whimsical and peaceful escape. While some find it a bit out of the way, most agree it's a worthwhile and memorable experience, especially for cat lovers and those seeking good fortune.

"As a cat lover, this temple was one of my favorite places to visit in the Tokyo area. Settled in a quiet suburb away from the bustling city, lies this lovely feline covered temple with such a beautiful backstory. Make sure to get there early enough to purchase your cat since they do sell out. And check out the local shops in the area for treats and trinkets 🐈"

Jessica Cross

"The Temple was super nice but a little bit far away from the Tokyo center (1h by tram/ metro). They were selling a different size of cat statues but only one per customer (prices were from 500-8000 yen).

Must visit if you like cats 😊

FYI for gluten free people:
No gluten free restaurants anywhere else near unfortunately. Take some snacks with you if you can."

Markus Kankare

"We reached a bit too late and the fortune cat shop had already ceased operations. There is only a limited number of fortune cats on sale every day (limited to 1 per pax) and one might have to pay more for the larger fortune cats.

The temple itself is a memorial area for the deceased so do remember to stay respectful within its premises.

Tips:
1. Try to time your visits when the store is still operating if you intend to buy a fortune cats.
2. There is limited parking available within the temple but can be a bit challenging to navigate there due to many 1 way roads in the surrounding area."

Joune Seng Cheah

What People Like

Thousands of lucky cats
Whimsical atmosphere
Peaceful escape

What People Dislike

Slightly out of the way
Shop closes early

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gotokuji Temple is accessible via the Odakyu Line to Gotokuji Station or the Setagaya Line to Miyanosaka Station. Many visitors enjoy riding the Odakyu Line's special Maneki-neko themed trains.TikTokReddit The temple is located in a residential area, about 30 minutes east of Shibuya.TikTok

While the temple itself is a distinct landmark, the surrounding area is residential. Following signs for 'Gotokuji Temple' or using a navigation app will guide you effectively. It's a peaceful walk from the station.TikTok

No, Gotokuji Temple is not open at night. The gates are closed outside of visiting hours, typically around 5 PM, so you cannot enter after dark.Reddit

From Shibuya, take the Odakyu Line directly to Gotokuji Station. This is a convenient option and offers the chance to ride the Maneki-neko decorated trains.Reddit

Yes, Gotokuji Temple is well-served by public transport. The Odakyu Line and the Setagaya Line are the primary routes, making it easily reachable for tourists.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the grounds of Gotokuji Temple is generally free. However, there is a shop where you can purchase Maneki-neko souvenirs, which will have a cost.TikTok

Gotokuji Temple is typically open during daylight hours, usually closing around 5 PM, though hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check closer to your visit date. The temple shop has specific hours and closes earlier.Reddit

Yes, the tradition is to bring your own Maneki-neko back to the temple once your wish has come true.TikTok You can also purchase one there to make a wish on.

There is no entrance fee to walk around the grounds of Gotokuji Temple. It's a free attraction, making it a great budget-friendly option in Tokyo.TikTok

While generally open, there might be temporary closures for festivals or ceremonies.Reddit It's always a good idea to check for any advisories before your visit. Respectful behavior is expected within the temple grounds.

📸 📸 Photography & Vibe

Daylight hours are best for capturing the vibrant colors of the Maneki-neko statues. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds for more serene shots.Instagram

Gotokuji Temple can get moderately crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Visiting on a weekday morning can offer a more peaceful experience.Reddit

The atmosphere is whimsical and charming, with thousands of lucky cats creating a unique visual. It's a peaceful, residential area offering a contrast to bustling Tokyo districts.TikTokInstagram

Photography is generally permitted on the temple grounds, but always be respectful of any posted signs or areas where photography might be restricted. Focus on the exterior displays of cats.Instagram

The sheer volume of Maneki-neko statues is what makes Gotokuji Temple incredibly photogenic. It's a sea of waving cats, offering endless unique photo opportunities.TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

You can purchase your own Maneki-neko from the temple's souvenir shop, located near the entrance. It's a popular spot to get a memento of your visit.TikTok

The temple shop has specific operating hours and typically closes in the late afternoon. It's advisable to visit earlier in the day to ensure you don't miss out.TikTok

Gotokuji Temple is in a residential neighborhood, so dining options directly adjacent to the temple are limited. However, the nearby area of Shimokitazawa offers a wide variety of cafes and restaurants.Reddit

The primary souvenir is the Maneki-neko (lucky cat) statue in various sizes. You might also find other cat-themed items or temple-related goods.TikTok

Eating is generally not permitted within the sacred grounds of Gotokuji Temple. There are cafes and restaurants in the surrounding residential area and nearby neighborhoods like Shimokitazawa.Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gotokuji Temple is a fantastic spot for families, especially those with young children who will be delighted by the sheer number of 'lucky cats'.TikTok The visual spectacle is captivating and provides endless 'I spy' opportunities. The temple grounds are safe for children to explore, and the unique theme makes it a memorable stop.

Pro-tip: Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds and allow children more space to roam. Bringing a small snack or drink is advisable as dining options immediately around the temple are limited, though the nearby Shimokitazawa area has plenty of family-friendly eateries.Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Gotokuji Temple is a dream location. The endless rows of Maneki-neko statues offer a unique and visually striking subject matter.Instagram Experiment with different angles, focal lengths, and lighting to capture the charm of this 'cat shrine tokyo'.TikTok

Best times for photos are during daylight hours, especially in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon. The Odakyu Line's Maneki-neko trains also provide excellent photo opportunities.TikTokReddit Remember to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site and other visitors while you capture your shots.

🚶 Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers

Gotokuji Temple is an excellent choice for solo travelers and those on a budget. Entry to the temple grounds is free, making it an accessible attraction.TikTok The unique theme provides a memorable experience without a significant cost.

Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding residential neighborhoods or heading to the nearby, trendy Shimokitazawa for affordable eats and vintage shopping.Reddit The journey on the Odakyu Line, especially if you catch a Maneki-neko train, adds to the adventure without extra expense.TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of the Maneki-neko

Gotokuji Temple is widely believed to be the birthplace of the Maneki-neko, the iconic beckoning cat figurine that brings good luck. The legend tells of a wealthy feudal lord who was sheltered by a cat at the temple during a thunderstorm. Grateful for the cat's gesture, he later became a patron of Gotokuji, donating land and resources. This patronage led to the tradition of leaving Maneki-neko statues at the temple to express gratitude for fulfilled wishes.TikTokInstagram

Visitors today can participate in this tradition by purchasing a Maneki-neko from the temple shop, making a wish, and then returning it to the temple once the wish comes true. This creates the mesmerizing sight of thousands of cats, each a testament to a personal hope or dream realized.TikTok The sheer number of these ceramic cats is what draws many visitors, creating a unique and visually striking experience.

Navigating to Gotokuji Temple

Getting to Gotokuji Temple involves a short journey into Tokyo's residential west side. The most popular route is via the Odakyu Line, which offers a special treat: the Maneki-neko themed trains.TikTokReddit These trains are adorned with lucky cat imagery, making the commute itself part of the experience. Alight at Gotokuji Station.

Alternatively, you can use the Setagaya Line, a charming tram that runs through local neighborhoods. The closest stop for this line is Miyanosaka Station. From either station, it's a pleasant walk to the temple, allowing you to soak in the local atmosphere.TikTok While the temple is a destination in itself, the journey through these quieter Tokyo districts offers a different perspective on the city.

Beyond the Cats: The Temple's Tranquility

While the Maneki-neko statues are the main draw, Gotokuji Temple is also a functioning Buddhist temple with a serene atmosphere. The grounds offer a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.Instagram Take a moment to appreciate the temple's architecture and the quiet reverence of the space.

Beyond the main area filled with cats, you can explore other parts of the temple grounds, which often feature traditional Japanese gardens and smaller shrines. It's a place where you can reflect and enjoy a moment of calm. Many visitors find the juxtaposition of the whimsical cat collection with the temple's inherent tranquility to be quite special.TikTok

You may also like

1 of 2