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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the cats in their full glory
Gotokuji Temple Tokyo
Best Time
See the cats in their full glory

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tokyo's enchanting Gotokuji Temple, the birthplace of the Maneki-neko, where thousands of lucky cats await your wishes.
"It's a sea of waving cats, offering endless unique photo opportunities!"
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
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 entrance
Purchase your own Maneki-neko to bring home good fortune, but be mindful of closing times .
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Lucky Cats
Embrace the Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
☕ Nearby Coffee Stop
Grab a coffee at Iron Coffee nearby for good brews and a friendly owner.
🚶 Explore the Neighborhood
Gotokuji is in a quiet residential area. Combine with Shimokitazawa for a fuller day.
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!
🚆 Catch the Lucky Cat Train
Look for the special Odakyu Line trains decorated with Maneki-neko for a fun ride to the temple.
☕ Nearby Coffee Stop
Grab a coffee at Iron Coffee nearby for good brews and a friendly owner.
🚶 Explore the Neighborhood
Gotokuji is in a quiet residential area. Combine with Shimokitazawa for a fuller day.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the charm, but be mindful of the sacred space and other visitors.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
The temple is located in a residential area, about 30 minutes east of Shibuya.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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
Yes, the tradition is to bring your own Maneki-neko back to the temple once your wish has come true.
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.
While generally open, there might be temporary closures for festivals or ceremonies.
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.
Gotokuji Temple can get moderately crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Visiting on a weekday morning can offer a more peaceful experience.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🛍️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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. Remember to be respectful of the sacred nature of the site and other visitors while you capture your shots.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding residential neighborhoods or heading to the nearby, trendy Shimokitazawa for affordable eats and vintage shopping. The journey on the Odakyu Line, especially if you catch a Maneki-neko train, adds to the adventure without extra expense.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Maneki-neko
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. The sheer number of these ceramic cats is what draws many visitors, creating a unique and visually striking experience.
Navigating to Gotokuji Temple
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. 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
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit