If you've ever visited Japan, chances are you might have stumbled upon one of these unique cat figurines with their paws raised. They are usually displayed near the cash register in stores and restaurants, and are known as Maneki-neko (招き猫).
What is maneki-neko?
Maneki (招き) comes from the Japanese verb maneku (招く), which means "to beckon," while neko (猫) means "cat". Therefore, the most literal translation for maneki-neko in English is “a beckoning cat”. The cat raises its paw as if it's beckoning good fortune to its owner. Other common names include Japanese Lucky Cat, Money Cat, and Welcoming Cat.
There are different stories about the origin of maneki-neko. Although the exact origin is unclear, the first record of this good luck charm appears in a document from 1852. Also, did you know that Meowth from the famous Pokémon franchise was inspired by Maneki-neko?
The meaning behind every gesture
There is actually a meaning behind which paw the cat is holding up.
Right paw raised: Invites money and good fortune (usually for businesses). Left paw raised: Invites customers or people. Some suggest the right and left paws both invite business-related prosperity, but that the left paw is for businesses of the night, such as bars and restaurants. Using Maneki-neko in homes is a more recent trend. Both paws raised: To invite protection for home or business.
Also, the basic accessories of this Japanese lucky cat also have special significance. Coin: Signifies wealth and material abundance. Bib and bell: May relate to protection, as well as wealth and material abundance (showing respect for the cat, keeping it warm, and displaying wealth—the gold bell symbolizes treasure, both material or spiritual).
Why are there many different colors?
While you will most commonly see a white Maneki-neko with orange and black spots, there are quite a few color variations and each of them holds a special meaning.
Calico: Traditional color combination, considered to be the luckiest. White: Happiness, purity, and positive things to come. Gold: Wealth and prosperity. Black: Wards off evil spirits. Red: Success in love and relationships. Green: Good health.
Maneki-neko can also be found holding gourds, prayer tablets, daikon radishes, and ingots. These items also represent wealth and good luck.
Regardless of its name, legend, raised paw, colors, or accessories, you really can't go wrong with a Fortune Cat by your side!
Where can I get one of these kawaii maneki-neko?
Why not get one of these cute Japanese lucky cats directly from Japan? There are thousands of options available on Japanese marketplaces such as Rakuten Japan, Amazon Japan, and JDirectItems Shopping Japan in all price ranges, so you can make the best choice depending on your budget.
However, most retailers do not offer international shipping, which is why you should use ZenMarket! We have integrated Rakuten Japan, JDirectItems Auction, and Amazon Japan's websites into our own site, so you can access them directly without the hassle of registering a separate account for each of those sites. Plus, you don't have to know Japanese as the listings are automatically translated for you. All you need is a ZenMarket account, and you can add items from different Japanese online stores in one cart.
Check out kawaii maneki-neko items on the following Japanese online marketplaces: Rakuten, JDirectItems Shopping Japan, Amazon Japan.
Can you recommend some maneki-neko-inspired items?
If you are not too fond of the normal Maneki-neko, or find it too big to put on display in your room, you may opt for another Maneki-neko-inspired item. You can add a unique touch to your style with a Sukajan jacket. There are also maneki-neko watches available. You can get yourself one of these three models of watches under the MANEKINEKO series. Or you can buy one of these kawaii maneki-neko piggy banks and decide your own fortune, by saving. There are plenty of other Maneki-neko products you might find interesting on ZenMarket.