Maneki-Neko Museum | Japan Highlights Travel, for sightseeing around Tokaido

This museum is one of the largest museums in Japan dedicated to maneki-neko—beckoning cat statues thought to bring good luck. It exhibits over 1000 maneki-neko statues made using a wide variety of different methods. The museum building was constructed in a style resembling the Western-style architecture of Seto in the Taisho period, and its unique exterior has become a landmark of Seto City. The exhibition is divided into several sections—the history of maneki-neko, maneki-neko categorized by major production area, rare and unique maneki-neko, miscellaneous maneki-neko products, and more. The exhibitions also include information, and the museum is definitely worth a look. Maneki-neko have been loved as a good luck charm since the Edo period, and now, are well-known outside of Japan, as well. At this museum, you can get a glimpse of what makes this welcoming cat is so well-loved. After fully enjoying the many unique maneki-neko, try coloring your own at the "painting experience" (additional fee required; no reservations required). Put your heart into making an original, one-of-a-kind maneki-neko!