All About the Maneki Neko – Japan’s Lucky Cat

Ever noticed those super cute cat figurines with the one paw that tilts up and down? You may have seen one at your closest Asian takeout spot or in someone’s house. These lucky cats are called Maneki Neko and Japanese culture assigns them a special place.

Today we look at the origin of Maneki Neko and answer your most asked questions about this fabulous feline figure. Let’s pounce right in!

What is a Maneki Neko? 

The Maneki Neko is a cute Japanese figurine known as the “lucky cat.” It’s believed to bring good luck and fortune to people who have it, and is super popular in Japan and other parts of East Asia.

Nowadays, people all over the world love having the Maneki Neko as a decoration or a collectible. It’s often placed somewhere prominent in a home, shop, or other business to bring good luck and attract good things.

The lucky cat is based on a calico Japanese Bobtail cat and comes in different colours, but the most common one is white with patches of black and orange. It can also be gold, black, or red. Each colour has a special meaning, e.g. white is for good energy and gold is for wealth.

You will find Maneki Neko figurines wearing various accessories and decorations. These may include a bib or scarf around the neck, a decorative collar, bells, or even a gold coin. These additional elements add to the charm and symbolism of the lucky cat.

Whatever the colour or style, having a Maneki Neko is a fun and cute way to invite positivity and prosperity into your life.

Lucky cat – versions and placement

While the most common Maneki Neko figurine depicts the cat with its right paw raised, there are variations with the left paw raised or even both paws raised.

Each paw gesture carries a different meaning. Believers say the right paw raised brings in good fortune and money, while the left paw attracts customers or people. Some believe that both paws raised symbolises protection and warding off evil spirits.

The placement of a Maneki Neko is considered important for maximising its luck-bringing qualities.

Placing it near the entrance, facing the doorway, is believed to attract good fortune into the home or business. Some also suggest placing the lucky cat in specific areas such as near a cash register or on a desk to enhance financial luck or business success!

Here’s a video to explain further:

Does it have an origin story?

The origin story of the Maneki Neko has several variations, but one of the most well-known versions is the story of the Gotokuji Temple in Tokyo.

According to the legend, during the Edo period in Japan, there was a poor temple priest who lived at the Gotokuji Temple. One stormy day, he noticed a stray cat beckoning to him outside the temple gate. Intrigued by the cat’s persistent gesture, the priest approached it just as a lightning bolt struck the exact spot where he had been standing moments before.

Grateful to the cat for saving his life, the priest believed it to be a divine messenger and invited the cat into the temple. The cat became a cherished companion, with the temple priest and cat living a prosperous life together.

In honour of the cat, the priest sculpted a figurine resembling the cat with one paw raised in a beckoning gesture. He placed the figurine in front of the temple and it soon became a symbol of good fortune and protection from misfortune.

The story spread as the Maneki Neko gained popularity throughout Japan.

How to say Maneki Neko

To say “Maneki Neko,” you can break it down into two parts:

1. Pronounce “Maneki” as “mah-neh-kee.”
2. Pronounce “Neko” as “neh-koh.”

So, when you put them together, you say “Mah-neh-kee Neh-koh.”

What does Maneki Neko mean?

“Maneki Neko” translates to “beckoning cat” or “lucky cat” in English.

• “Maneki” means “beckoning” or “inviting” in Japanese.
• “Neko” means “cat” in Japanese.

Is Maneki Neko Chinese or Japanese?

As mentioned, Maneki Neko is a traditional Japanese cultural symbol. While it has gained popularity and recognition in other parts of East Asia, particularly in China, it’s firmly rooted in Japanese culture.

Where to buy Maneki Neko in Australia?

Want a cute lucky cat statue of your very own? So do we! Obviously, the best place to buy one is in Japan itself, but if you can’t get that far here are a few purchasing options:

1. Local Japanese or Asian specialty stores: Check out these stores in your area, they may carry a selection of Maneki Neko figurines or lucky cat items.
2. Online marketplaces: Explore popular online marketplaces like eBay or Amazon. These platforms often have a wide range of sellers offering Maneki Neko figurines, allowing you to choose from different styles and sizes.
3. Gift shops or souvenir stores: Especially those that cater to tourists or have a diverse range of cultural products.
4. Asian festivals or markets: These events often feature vendors selling various cultural items, including lucky cat figurines.
5. Online retailers: Browse through online retailers specialising in Japanese or Asian products. They might have a dedicated section for Maneki Neko items.

While you’re here

Why not read some of our other articles with Asian cultural relevance, including:

• 2023: Year of the Rabbit … Or Cat?
• Chinese New Year 2023: What’s Your Chinese Zodiac Animal Personality?
• Sacred Animals: Hindu Dog God, Covetous Cat
• Your Guide to a Pet Friendly Diwali
• Dog Breeds from India
• Pet Friendly Celebrations for Chinese New Year
• 6 Cat Facts for International Cat Day
• What is a Cat Café Anyway?

Make your cat truly lucky … with insurance!

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