In Japan, cats aren’t just cute companions - they’re symbols, superstitions, and sometimes even celebrities. From charming maneki-neko figurines waving at shop doors to feline-themed cafés tucked into Tokyo side streets, cats have quietly pawed their way deep into Japanese life. September is a particularly special month for cat lovers in Japan, with 29th September celebrated as Maneki-neko Day. Let’s explore why Japan has such a soft spot for its whiskered friends.
Cats in Japanese Culture
Cats in Japan are often associated with good luck, protection, and prosperity. In the past, cats were valued for keeping grain stores safe from mice, and later for protecting precious silkworms. Over time, their image shifted from useful farm protectors to beloved companions. Today, they’re also seen as calm, independent creatures - qualities admired in Japanese culture.
The Rise of the Cat Café
Japan gave the world the first official cat café, Neko no Jikan (“Cat Time”), which opened in Osaka in 2004. The idea was simple but brilliant: a cosy space where people without the time, space, or permission to own pets could still enjoy feline company. In crowded cities such as Tokyo, where many flats forbid pets, cat cafés quickly became an urban oasis. Visitors sip tea while a cat purrs on their lap.
(Cats relaxing at a Cat Café)
Cats vs Dogs in Japan
In the eternal pet debate, Japan has seen a shift over the past decade: cats have overtaken dogs in popularity. According to pet industry surveys, cats are now preferred partly because they’re easier to care for in small apartments and don’t require daily walks. Dogs still hold a loyal fanbase (Shiba Inu lovers, we see you!), but for busy city life, the self-sufficient charm of a cat often wins out.
Maneki-neko: The Beckoning Cat
You’ve probably seen those ceramic cats with one paw raised, often displayed in shop windows or on restaurant counters. Known as the maneki-neko, or 'beckoning cat,' they are believed to attract luck and prosperity. The meaning also changes depending on which paw is raised:
Left paw raised: attracts customers.
Right paw raised: invites wealth and good fortune.
Both paws raised: maximum luck (and maximum cuteness).
The most famous origin story comes from a poor temple called Gotokuji in Edo (modern Tokyo), where a cat is said to have beckoned a passing lord to safety during a thunderstorm. In gratitude, the lord became the temple’s benefactor, and the maneki-neko was born as a symbol of good fortune.
(Maneki-neko statue at Gotokuji temple)
29th September: Maneki-neko Day
In Japan, 29th September (29/9) is celebrated as Maneki-neko Day because the numbers 2 (fu) and 9 (ku) can be read together as ‘fuku’ - sounding like ‘good fortune,’ while another 9 can be read as ‘ku(ru)’ for ‘come’ Together, it’s a playful pun meaning “invite good luck.” On this day, people often buy or gift maneki-neko charms to welcome prosperity into their homes and businesses.
Why There’s No Cat in the Year of the Animals
You might be wondering - if cats are so beloved, why aren’t they part of the Japanese zodiac? Legend says the Jade Emperor invited animals to a great race to determine the zodiac order. The rat, knowing the cat was a fast runner, tricked it by telling it the wrong date. The cat overslept, missed the race, and lost its place. Since then, folklore says cats have never forgiven rats - and perhaps that’s why they still chase them today. (Read our blog about Japanese Zodiac animals for detail!)
(Rivalry between cats and rats)
Whether you’re sipping coffee in a cat café, patting a real-life tabby, or placing a maneki-neko by your doorway, cats have a special way of bringing joy and luck into everyday life. So this autumn, take a moment to appreciate the purrs, the paw prints, and the little whiskered faces that brighten Japan’s culture — and perhaps, your own home.
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And if you’d like to invite a touch of feline fortune into your life, our collection includes charming Feng Shui cats to bring balance, lucky cat bowls to brighten your dining table, and even mini lucky cat crystals that make the perfect pocket-sized charm. Visit us in-store or online and discover the little ways a cat can bring happiness and good fortune into your home!