Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Gotokuji Temple is a Jodo sect temple located in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, and is said to have been founded between the Muromachi and Sengoku periods. Since the Edo period, it has been known as the family temple of the Ii clan, and while it has a prestigious and historic status as a temple, in modern times it has become widely loved as a temple associated with the "Maneki Neko" (beckoning cat) statue.
The temple's greatest attraction is the countless large and small maneki-neko cats lined up within the temple grounds. The legend of the maneki-neko (beckoning cat) originates from a certain samurai and the temple's cat (the cat beckoned its master into the temple during heavy rain, helping him escape danger), and many worshippers visit the temple to pray for prosperity in business and good fortune. The temple grounds have a tranquil atmosphere, and the seasonal plantings and historical buildings are also worth seeing.
Highlights
- Maneki-neko corner: An area where various sizes of beckoning cats are lined up. Beckoning cats donated by worshippers are piled up in the precincts, making it a popular photo spot.
- Main Hall and Sanmon Gate: Traditional temple architecture. You can worship in a quiet atmosphere.
- Ii family graveyard: Known for its gravestones related to the Ii family, this is an interesting spot for history buffs (access to the graveyard may be restricted).
- Gardens and seasonal sceneryYou can enjoy the beauty of each season, such as cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and autumn leaves. In some years, you can also see hydrangeas in the rainy season.
- Surrounding walking paths: The residential area around the temple is dotted with old-fashioned shops and cafes. We recommend taking a leisurely stroll around.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: About 3-5 minutes on foot from Gotokuji Station on the Odakyu Odawara Line (Gotokuji Station is the most convenient station).
- Other: It may be possible to access the property within a 10-minute walk from stations on the Tokyu Setagaya Line (such as Miyanosaka Station or Yamashita Station). It is also convenient to travel by using nearby train lines and buses.
- By car: As there are limited large dedicated parking lots, we recommend using public transportation. Please use the nearby paid parking lots.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit and photo shoot: 30 to 45 minutes
- A leisurely tour of the temple grounds and a stroll around the surrounding area: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
- Combining a visit to nearby cafes and Shimokitazawa: Half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Shimokitazawa: A popular area with unique shops, cafes, and vintage clothing stores. It's about a few minutes to 10 minutes by train from Gotokuji.
- Sangenjaya/Setagaya area: With plenty of restaurants and shopping streets, it's perfect for dining and strolling.
- Gotokuji Shopping Street: Dotted with local shops and cafes, this area is perfect for stopping by before or after visiting the temple.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: The number of visitors increases on weekends and public holidays, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage season, the New Year holidays, and Golden Week. When taking photographs, please be considerate of other visitors.
- Photography etiquette: While photography is permitted in many areas within the temple grounds, please be considerate when taking photos of graves or other worshippers. Flash photography and the use of tripods may be restricted.
- Rules of Offering: It is customary to offer a beckoning cat as a dedication, but there may be rules regarding the size and method of offering. Please check the signs before making your offering.
- Clothing and worship etiquette: Temples are religious facilities. Please observe basic etiquette, such as not making loud noises and taking your trash with you.
- Seasonal precautions: The grounds can become slippery during rainy weather and the rainy season. In autumn, fallen leaves can make it difficult to see where you are walking, so please be careful when walking.
For the latest opening hours, event information, and admission fees (if required), please check official information and local signs. Gotokuji Temple, where a quiet, historic space coexists with a cute maneki-neko (beckoning cat), is a spot where you can have a unique worship experience even within Tokyo.
