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A temple with a long history in connection with the Ii family where Manekineko will welcome you.
A Soto school temple situated in Setagaya ward and the birthplace of Manekineko. In 1480, Masatada Kira, a lord of Setagaya, established a temple called Kotokuin, in 1659, the temple’s name was changed to Gotokuji. This temple was designated as Bodaiji (a temple which takes care of a family’s dead, giving them burital and performing ceremonies their souls) for the lord of Hikone clan, the Ii family, the Ii family’s grave from generation to generation and many cultural heritages connecting to the family are placed on the ground.
The connection of the temple to the Ii family comes from a cat. One day, when the lord of Hikone clan, Naotaka Ii, was walking in front of the temple, a cat beckoned him, so Naotaka entered the temple, which helped him to be caught in a shower. Naotaka was so happy with the cat's help and decided to repair the temple, he kept supporting the temple later.
The cat bringing good luck to Gotokuji has been called Manekineko and enshrined in the temple as well as many figures of cats on the ground. Over 1,000 figures dedicated by worshippers are placed in the temple office and the 3-storey pagoda is decorated with carved cats and the twelve signs of the Chinese zodiac. Enjoy walking and you can find cats at many places on the ground.
Manekineko dedicated by worshippers line up.
The 3-storey pagoda is decorated with carved cats and the twelve signs of the Chinese zodiac.
The Ii family’s grave designated as a national property is located on the ground.
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Can you provide services in foreign languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
Not available
Q
Is it possible to re-enter the premises?
Yes, it is.
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Is free WiFi available in the facility?
Yes, it is.
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Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
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Cats! Cats! Everywhere you look, there are so many maneki-neko, and they're absolutely adorable. I went for a stroll with friends while wearing yukata. Even though it's a temple, it's also a great spot for photos. I bought a small maneki-neko as a souvenir (it was about JPY 300, if I remember right!).
This is said to be the birthplace of the Maneki-neko (lucky cat). There are countless lucky cat figurines here, and you can even buy one to take home for good luck.