Gotokuji Temple Travel Guide

Come visit the birthplace of the maneki-neko (lucky cat) and say “hello” to the large and small cat statues that fill Gotokuji Temple.

Nearby Food Experiences

Nearby Restaurants

SEAT RESERVATION
TOKYO

Yakiton Hinata Gotokuji Branch

Relish grilled tripe and yakitori in Gotokuji, Setagaya. A top spot for exploring Japanese izakaya cuisine with a lively flair. Grilled tripe.

Dinner: ¥2,000-3,000
SEAT RESERVATION
TOKYO

Pizza Salvatore Cuomo Kyodo

Indulge in flavorful Napoli-style pizzas at Pizza Salvatore Cuomo Kyodo, located a short walk from Kyodo Station in Setagaya. A must-visit for pizza lovers.

Lunch: ¥1,000-2,000
Dinner: ¥2,000-3,000
SEAT RESERVATION
TOKYO

Yakiniku Terrace En

Indulge in top-notch Yakiniku and Horumon at Yakiniku Terrace En in Setagaya, easily accessible from Umegaoka Station.

Dinner: ¥5,000-6,000
SEAT RESERVATION
TOKYO

Kiraku (Kyodo)

Accessible in just 20 minutes from Shibuya and Shinjuku, Kiraku offers Michelin-starred sushi for much lower prices than in downtown.

Lunch: ¥6,000-13,000
Dinner: ¥10,000-15,000

Located outside of Tokyo’s bustling center, Gotokuji Temple is the perfect place for a close but great escape. This temple is famous for maneki-neko, the iconic cats that have their right paw raised as a sign of good luck. With its growing popularity, visitors from all around the world visit to witness these cat statues or purchase Japanese fortunes or ema plaques. Enjoy the hundreds of cats displayed throughout the temple, and be sure to snap a commemorative photo.

There are many places to explore on the temple grounds, such as the gorgeous gardens. The traditional Japanese buildings provide a calm atmosphere, making the stroll along the temple very relaxing. Visitors are able to see the gravestones of the li clan at the cemetery. It is a unique experience, as cemeteries in Japan are normally locked.

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