Daikeizan Gotokuji temple (大谿山 豪徳寺) as known as Cat temple is a must-visit Buddhist temple when you come to Setagaya City, Tokyo, Japan. You can find a peaceful retreat in a tranquil ambiance while learning about Japanese cultural experience, combining spirituality, folklore, and the charm of the Maneki-neko – the symbol of the temple.
If you are looking for a unique place to take a deeper understanding of Japanese traditions, then this is the perfect fit! Let’s discover the uncovered charm of this enchanting temple below.
Information of the Gotoku-ji temple
Website: https://gotokuji.jp/en/
Address: Gotokuji 2-24-7, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 154-0021 (5-minute-walk from Miyanosaka station, Tokyu Setagaya line/ 15-minute-walk from Gotokuji station, Odakyu line).
Opening hours: 6AM to 5PM.
What you can expect from Gōtoku-ji temple
Gōtoku-ji temple is believed to be the original birthplace of the famous lucky cat “Maneki Neko”. The white cat with red necklace details and one of its paws raised symbolizes the welcoming gesture. It is said to be a symbol of good luck, wealth and prosperity. Gotokuji temple built the Shofuku-den to enshrine the cat in 1633. Since then, many people often go to Shofuku-den to pray for luck, happiness, flourishing business, and well-being for the family.
A big Maneki Neko statue welcomes you at the entrance of Shofuku-den – where you meet a variety of Manekineko.
The place displaying dozens of multi-size cat statues has become a signature spot in the temple, drawing many visitors to come to check-in.
The temple also provides spaces for various religious activities and practice in its pagodas, and prayer halls such as the main hall – Ho-do, Buddha Hall – Butsu-den, Jizo-do, Sanju-no-to pagoda, and many more.
Don’t forget to look for Manekinekos as you roam about the temple’s lush grounds and praying halls!
Visitors can bring home their own Maneki-neko souvenirs as good luck goods at the temple’s souvenir shop. Souvenirs you can purchase include: Manekineko doll, Omamori (Amulet), Goshuin-cho (stamp book), Wooden Ema (cat prayer cards), etc.
Purchase a Wooden Ema and write on your hopes and prayers then hang in on the wood board. Or you can take it home as a souvenir.
Ride on the most unique Manekineko train to the Daikeizan Gotokuji temple
As you make your way to the temple through Sangenjaya station, you’ll have the chance to transfer to the Setagaya line. Here, you will have a delightful experience on the cutest train decorated with Maneki-neko details in both its exterior and interior.
Hope you will have the best moment and leave with joy at Daikeizan Gotokuji temple (大谿山 豪徳寺). Japan has lots more charming shrines waiting for you to explore, plan your trip to Japan now to find out many more unique spots!
