WAITER-U JOURNAL is a series that ventures a little beyond the outdoors to explore lifestyle and culture. The fifth installment visits Gotokuji Temple in Setagaya, Tokyo.
Gotokuji Temple is a Soto Zen temple, established at the end of the Heian period and introduced to Japan by Dogen in the Kamakura period. It is said to have been founded around 1480. In the Edo period, it became the family temple (a temple where memorial services are held) for the Ii family, and the grave of Ii Naosuke, famous for the Sakuradamon Incident, is also located there.
And what Gotokuji Temple is most famous for is, without a doubt, the "Maneki Neko" (beckoning cat).
Maneki Neko are lucky charms in traditional Japanese culture, believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. The Maneki Neko of Gotokuji Temple attract many worshippers and tourists based on this belief.
While most Maneki Neko hold a koban (oval gold coin), the Maneki Neko at Gotokuji Temple do not.
This stems from the idea that while Maneki Neko can bring good fortune, it is ultimately up to you to create true wealth.
I once heard a saying that opportunities only come to those who are prepared.
And here, thousands of Maneki Neko have been dedicated by visitors. Since these are dedications, they cannot be taken home or touched, but the Maneki Neko here are those whose wishes and dreams have come true, having fulfilled their purpose for someone who visited this place.
Thinking about it that way, it's hard not to feel a surge of power.
If you have a wish or a dream, why not visit Gotokuji Temple at least once?
