Gotokuji Cat Temple
There was no doubt that we’d visit the “lucky cat shrine” in Tokyo when we planned our most recent visit to Japan. As proud cat caretakers, we knew we needed to visit a place dedicated entirely to cats, and we were so glad we did. It’s a beautiful, serene temple rich in history and enthralling legends. While most visitors call this place the “lucky cat shrine”, which is a Shinto construct, Gotokuji is actually a Buddhist temple. You’ll have an easier time researching the temple and contextualizing what you see at Gotokuji under the proper designation. Let’s take a stroll through Gotokuji cat temple!
Got0kuji Temple
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Year Built: 1480
Rebuilt & Expanded: 1633
Renovated: 2022
Address: 2 Chome-24-7 Gotokuji, Setagaya City
Nearest Station: Miyanosaka Station [Tokyu Setagaya Line]
Hours: 6 am – 5 pm
Admission Fee: None
Dress Code: Respectful
Famous for: Beckoning/Lucky Cat
About Gotokuji
Gotokuji is an incredible example of Edo-period temples, even amongst other older sites across Japan. Thankfully, it was spared from the devastation the American military subjected much of Tokyo to and was not damaged during the air raids and fire bombing. Because of this, we get a glimpse into this time period that otherwise would have been destroyed. I’d be remiss to visit a Buddhist temple, one that narrowly escaped the destruction of war no less, without expressing how vehemently I am against such brutality. There are many such atrocities still happening to this day, all of them unforgivable. It’s more important than ever before that we pressure our politicians to do the right thing, to end all wars, to stop supplying weapons and funds to violent groups foreign and American militaries, and demand peace. In the 21st century, there is no reason to fight each other, certainly not when understanding one another is as simple as picking up a history book.
That said, here’s how this darling cat temple came to be. In the 17th century, a samurai working for their feudal lord was caught in a terrible storm far from home. Waiting for the storm to pass beneath a huge tree near a crumbling temple, he spotted a white cat beckoning him towards shelter. He followed the cat, and once he was safe, the tree he’d stood beneath was struck by lightning, caught fire, and crashed to the ground. Believing that the encounter with the lucky cat had saved his life, he dedicated himself to restoring the derelict temple, Gotokuji.
How Long to Spend at Gotokuji Temple
We spent two hours at Gotokuji Temple. It was the perfect amount of time for us to see and do everything we wanted. If we’d waited in line for the gift shop, we would’ve spent longer.
Things to Do at Gotokuji
Admire the Garden & Grounds
Gotokuji may be in Tokyo, Japan’s largest city, but it feels a world away, as it’s nestled in a labyrinth of flower beds, Japanese maples, and serene stone paths. It’s the perfect way to experience a more tranquil side of the capital.
Visit the Main Temple Hall
Say a prayer and make a wish for good luck at the main temple hall. If that isn’t your speed, you can learn more about Gotokuji’s history and admire the beautiful Edo-era architecture. Nearby is where visitors leave ema, or wooden prayer tablets, shown below.
Visit the Ii Clan Cemetery
Since the Ii Clan has been tied to this area for centuries, it is also where many of their ancestors are buried. It’s a beautiful cemetery, but please remember that first and foremost, it is a graveyard. Do not be disrespectful or loud, and do not take photos there, as it is not a playground.
Maneki Neko Statues
The white cat statues scattered around the temple represent that fateful encounter with a cat that saved the samurai’s life. Buy one for yourself at the gift shop, or leave one behind to ensure your wish comes true. There’s a famous path lined with shelves and shelves of statues, which is free to visit. To continue the flow of traffic, do not treat this area as a place to have photoshoots of yourself. However, it is okay to photograph the cats!
Gift Shop
If you want to get your goschuin stamped to commemorate your visit, you’ll need to visit the gift shop. Purchase Maneki Neko (lucky cat figurines) and use them to make a wish for good luck. Although we arrived right when the temple opened, the wait for the gift shop was nearly three hours, so we skipped it. Instead, we donated to the main temple hall. Visit later in the day for a shorter wait, but beware that they may sell out of more popular charms, ema, or Maneki Neko figurines.
Admire the Pagoda
One of the few in Tokyo to survive the American assault on the city, Gotokuji’s pagoda is a splendid example of Japanese architecture.
Light Incense
As this is a Buddhist temple, you’re also welcome to light incense (purchased in the gift shop) and say a prayer at the incense burners if that aligns with your beliefs. The heady scent wafting around temples is another reason I love visiting.
Sit & Enjoy the Peace
There are a few spots to sit and admire the temple, each of them stunning. Be mindful of others who may want to sit and enjoy the peace. Eating, drinking, or getting on your phone on the benches is impolite.
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