Tokyo’s urban myth: Lucky Cats of Gotokuji Temple

Tokyo is a mesmerising metropolis where ancient traditions and modern wonders harmoniously coexist. Amidst the ever-on-the-go streets and towering skyscrapers lies a hidden sanctuary that emanates tranquillity and spiritual grace. Allow me to introduce you to the enchanting Gotokuji Temple – a place of serenity and a testament to Japan's rich cultural heritage. As an expat om Japan, I’ve been living in Tokyo for a while now, and often times I seek places in the city where I can go to escape the non-stop life in the fast lane. I know, it sounds like a contradiction for living in Tokyo - don’t get me wrong, I love the high adrenaline energy of Japan’s capital city, but since I live in the central heart of it, some days it’s nice to balance that speed out. Beyond the bustling cityscape, this is where I’ve discovered a haven that transports you back in time and slows down the hectic street life within its gates. Gotokuji Temple, nestled in the Setagaya ward, stands as one of Tokyo's oldest and most revered Buddhist temples and a slice where you can catch your breath in Tokyo. Curious? Follow me on Instagram and YouTube for more adventures! 

With a history that traces back to the Edo period, the moment you step through the temple's intricately crafted wooden gate, a sense of serenity envelops you. The air is infused with a delicate aroma of incense, and the gentle sound of rustling leaves accompanies your every step. The temple's harmonious blend of nature and architecture provides a refuge from the vibrant energy of the metropolis - a perfect place for those who want to explore Tokyo, but not get lost in its madness. 

Wandering around the temple grounds, I’ve learned about a captivating story, a folklore from Gotokuji Temple  — the legend of the Maneki-neko, or beckoning cat. This tale, steeped in local myth, recounts a faithful cat at Gotokuji Temple that beckoned a passing samurai to safety, thus saving his life during a sudden thunderstorm. In gratitude, the samurai and his clan bestowed blessings and prosperity upon the temple. To this day, the Maneki-neko statues found at Gotokuji Temple serve as iconic symbols of good luck and fortune, inspiring visitors with their raised paws and welcoming expressions.

As you stroll through the temple's pathways, the gentle rustling of leaves and the intermittent sound of temple bells create a symphony of tranquillity. Here, you can marvel at the meticulously maintained gardens, where vibrant flowers bloom harmoniously with fine-tuned trimmed trees. The Zen gardens, with their carefully raked sand patterns and strategically placed rocks, invite moments of contemplation and inner peace. One of the highlights of Gotokuji Temple is the revered Wishing Tree, concealed within a serene bamboo grove. In this spot, visitors have the opportunity to inscribe their deepest desires and heartfelt wishes on colourful paper tags, known as ema, and hang them delicately from the branches. The sight of these fluttering wishes against the backdrop of towering bamboo creates an ethereal ambience, inspiring hope and reminding us of the power of belief.

Additionally, for those seeking a deeper immersion into Japanese culture, Gotokuji Temple offers traditional tea ceremonies. Step into a tranquil tearoom, where the meticulous art of tea preparation unfolds. Allow the serene atmosphere and the graceful movements of the tea master to transport you into a realm of mindful presence, embracing the essence of Japanese hospitality.

Now there’s one particular section of Gotokuji Temple that you can’t miss out on when you’re here: it’s where all the lucky cats are! After all, Gotokuji Temple is known for its vast collection of Maneki-neko statues (tieing in with the folklore). These statues are often donated by individuals or businesses seeking blessings, prosperity, and success. The multitude of cat statues reflects the enduring belief in the power of the beckoning cat to bring good fortune and positive energy. These adorable little trinkets come in various sizes, colours, and designs. You'll find both traditional and modern interpretations of these cat figurines. Some statues may wear colourful collars, bibs, or hold different objects, each symbolising different types of luck or blessings. You can also typically purchase Maneki-neko statues at Gotokuji Temple. The temple has a gift shop stall where you can find a variety of these iconic cat figurines, along with other related merchandise and souvenirs. Whether you seek a small trinket or a larger decorative piece, you'll likely find a suitable Maneki-neko to bring luck into your life.

In the midst of Tokyo's vibrant urban landscape, Gotokuji Temple stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Japanese spirituality and tradition. Its rich history, picturesque gardens, and the captivating legend of the Maneki-neko offer a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you with a sense of inner peace, good fortune, and a lasting connection to Tokyo's cultural tapestry. So whether you’re an expat living in Tokyo like me, or a traveller looking for a local off-the-beaten-path hidden gem to uncover in this megacity, Gotokuji Temple is a quirky spot for anyone to behold. 

Getting to Gotokuji Temple is relatively straightforward, and there are several transportation options available. Here are a few common ways to reach the temple:

By Train:

Take the Odakyu Line to Gotokuji Station. The temple is located approximately a 10-minute walk from the station. After exiting the station, follow the signs or use a map application to navigate your way to the temple grounds.

By Subway:

If you prefer to travel by subway, you can take the Setagaya Line to Miyanosaka Station. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk to Gotokuji Temple. Consult a map or ask for directions to ensure you're heading in the right direction.

By Bus:

There are also bus routes that pass near Gotokuji Temple. You can check the local bus schedules and routes to find the most convenient option for your location. The temple is served by several bus stops in the vicinity, so be sure to check which stop is closest to your starting point.

By Taxi:

Taking a taxi is another convenient way to reach the temple. Simply hail a taxi or ask your hotel concierge to arrange one for you. Provide the driver with the address of Gotokuji Temple (2-24-7 Gotokuji, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo) or show them on a map application for accurate navigation.

If you enjoy this quiet and serene area of Tokyo, also known as the Setagaya neighbourhood, there are plenty of welcoming accommodations here that would make for a great stay in Tokyo. I adore the stylish MUSTARD HOTEL SHIMOKITAZAWA, since it's in the heart of the neighbourhood and the lobby has one of my favourite coffee stands to kick start the morning. If you're on more of a budget, THE WARDROBE Hotel Shimokitazawa offers affordable dormitory-style stays. There's also Tokyu Stay Yoga, which are great for family or long-stays in Toyko.