🇯🇵 Tokyo Hidden Gem – Gotokuji Temple, the Lucky Cat Paradise! 🐱📍

#tokyospots If you’re a cat lover or just looking for a peaceful, photo-worthy spot in Tokyo, Gotokuji Temple is a must-visit! It’s known as the birthplace of the maneki-neko (beckoning cat), and trust me — seeing hundreds of lucky cats in one place is both adorable and spiritually uplifting. 🐾 Why You’ll Love Gotokuji • Endless lucky cats! From palm-sized to full arm-length — they’re everywhere. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a cat lover’s dream. • Tranquil vibes: Unlike Tokyo’s buzzing tourist spots, this temple is quiet, calm, and filled with traditional charm. • Perfect photo op: Every angle here screams Japanese aesthetic — ideal for a peaceful stroll or that dreamy Insta post. ⚠️ The cat display area is actually small! It looks massive in photos but is really a concentrated spot near the temple building (see the last photo for scale if you’re scrolling). 🛕 Getting There 🚆 From Shinjuku Station: • Take the Odakyu Line to Gotokuji Station, then walk ~10 mins OR • Take the Tokyu Setagaya Line to Miyanosaka Station, then walk ~5 mins 🕐 Opening Hours • Daily: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM • 🆓 Admission is free • 🛍️ You can buy a lucky cat to take home as a souvenir (great for good luck & business blessings) 📸 Tips for the Best Experience • Visit during daylight hours for the best lighting — especially if you want that dreamy soft glow 🌞 • Wear white or pastel-colored clothes — they contrast beautifully with the red & white cats! • Be respectful — this is a functioning temple, so speak softly and follow signs. Whether you’re seeking blessings, cute photos, or just a quiet break from Tokyo’s hustle — Gotokuji Temple will charm your heart! 🐾✨ #trip #travel #staycation