Gotokuji Temple

Setagaya · Temple & beckoning cats

Meet the cats. Notice the temple.

Rows of white beckoning cats have made Gotokuji famous, but the setting is a living Buddhist temple in a residential part of Setagaya. Visit with time to walk the grounds quietly and learn the story behind its distinctive maneki-neko.

Location & map ↓Official visitor information ↗

Grounds visiting hours: 06:00–17:00
Temple office: 08:00–15:00
Nearest tram stop: Miyanosaka: about five minutes on foot
Odakyu access: Gotokuji: about fifteen minutes on foot
Known for: White maneki-neko offerings
Visit style: Quiet, self-guided temple visit

Learn the beckoning-cat story

In the temple’s tradition, a cat beckoned Ii Naotaka inside and a storm followed. The story connects the temple with good fortune. Gotokuji’s white cats raise their right paw and do not carry a coin; they invite opportunity rather than simply handing over a reward.

Treat the offerings with care

The cats left in the offering area express visitors’ wishes and gratitude. Do not move them for photographs or write on them. Keep paths and worship spaces clear, speak quietly, and follow signs around the buildings and grounds.

Arrive before the office closes

The office’s hours end earlier than the grounds’ visiting hours. If you hope to obtain a cat figure or amulet, plan accordingly and remember that availability can vary. The temple says it has no officially endorsed commercial guided tours; commercial guiding and photography require prior consultation.

Location & access

2-24-7 Gotokuji, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 154-0021

Neighbourhood

Gotokuji / Setagaya

About five minutes on foot from Miyanosaka Station on the Tokyu Setagaya Line, or fifteen minutes from Gotokuji Station on the Odakyu Line.

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Keep exploring

Sources & planning links

Visitor information reviewed on 12 October 2026. This guide uses published sources. Confirm current hours, prices and availability before visiting.