The Maneki-Neko is a traditional Japanese figurine beloved worldwide for its charming pose that beckons good fortune. Originating from the Edo period town culture, its popularity has spread across Japan. The Maneki-Neko varies in material and expression by region and differs in benefits depending on the raised hand. Commonly seen in shops and restaurants, it is believed to bring prosperity and improve financial luck.

Though the origin of Maneki-Neko is unclear, it’s generally associated with the Edo period. One theory traces back to Gotokuji Temple in Setagaya, Tokyo. This temple, now a bodhi temple of the Ii family, began as a small temple where a cat saved the Ii family from a thunderstorm, leading to their generous protection of the temple. Today, the temple houses a dedicated space for donated Maneki-Neko figurines of various sizes.

1. Which Hand is Raised

• Right Hand Raised: Symbolizes increased financial luck and business prosperity.
• Left Hand Raised: Represents attracting people or customers.
• Both Hands Raised: Said to bring both benefits.

2. Color and Associated Benefits

• White & Calico: General good luck and business prosperity.
• Black: Wards off evil and ensures household safety.
• Red: Protects from illness and promotes good health and longevity.
• Gold/Yellow: Enhances financial luck.
• Pink: Aids in love and relationship success.
• Green: Ensures peace and safety.
• Blue: Assists in academic and employment success.
• Purple: Symbolizes longevity.

Each color, including specific items held by the Maneki-Neko, has its own special significance, ranging from protection against evil, enhancing financial luck, ensuring household safety, to assisting in love and relationships, academic and employment success. For optimal Feng Shui, each color should be placed in a corresponding direction within a room or space.

​3. Meaning of Items Held

Check the meaning of the item the Maneki-neko is holding. Depending on your wishes for financial fortune, health, or business prosperity, the item changes. Pay attention not only to the raised hand or body color but also the meaning of the items held to attract more luck!

▼Money (such as Koban in Japan) is for those wishing for a rise in financial luck. The classic "koban" that the Maneki-neko holds is recommended for those hoping for financial and wealth luck.

▼A small hammer brings wealth with many blessings. The "Uchide no kozuchi", or magic wishing mallet, can bring whatever is desired when swung, as told in old tales. In Japan, it's a symbol of Daikokuten, a god of wealth, hence its association with the Maneki-neko.

▼A sea bream brings auspicious events. The sea bream, or “tai”, is often used to celebrate happy occasions in Japan, bringing an image of good luck. It's an item of Ebisu, a god of prosperity known in the Kansai region, making it perfect for business people or those wishing to attract good fortune.

▼A large framed picture of a high-value banknote attracts customers for thriving business. A “Daiiri” amount framed attracts customers and is recommended for shops desiring bustling business. You might have seen one at a shop before.

▼Dharma allows you to overcome difficulties. A Dharma doll symbolizes perseverance, representing the spirit of resilience and rising each time one falls, signifying the motivation to stand up despite failures.

For those wanting to know more, we recommend the “Maneki-neko Museum”. The “Maneki-neko Museum” is Japan's largest museum specializing in Maneki-neko, with about 5,000 Maneki-neko items collected from all over Japan, including folk toys, antiques, and everyday goods. It's a place to learn about Maneki-neko, with permanent and themed exhibitions. There are also experience corners where you can try various Maneki-neko related activities and a museum shop for Maneki-neko goods.

In the Edo period, it was often placed on a household altar as an object of folk belief, but gradually it started to be placed in more conspicuous places mainly in shops. Essentially, it can be placed anywhere in the house, but a visible location is essential. For shops, it’s typically placed near the entrance, window, or cash register. Inside a house, the southeast direction is believed to enhance financial luck.

The Maneki-neko is not just a decorative item. It's believed to have the power to bring in business prosperity and good luck. Each color and hand position has a special meaning, so find the Maneki-neko that suits you and enhance your luck!

※Beliefs and practices regarding the Maneki-neko may vary by region and individual, so please use this information as just one reference.