Also known as the beckoning or Japanese fortune cat, Maneki Neko has become a very popular symbol of good luck and an invitation to prosperity and success in business. It is typically represented as a cat adorned with a bib, collar and bell, with one paw raised and often holding a coin or fish in the other paw. Maneki Neko can often be found sitting in the windows and entrances of Asian shops and restaurants, but has been adapted to many modern variations, bringing a bit of good luck
Maneki Neko -- The Legend
This is one of the various legends of the Maneki Neko:
In the 17th century, there was a rundown and poverty-stricken temple in Tokyo. The temple's priest was very poor, but he shared what little food he had with his pet cat, Tama.
One day, a wealthy and important man was caught in a storm while hunting and he took refuge under a big tree near the temple. While he waited for the storm to pass, the man noticed a cat beckoning him to come inside the temple gate. This was so startling that he left the shelter of the tree to have a closer look at this unusual cat. At that moment, the tree was struck by lighting.
As a result, the wealthy man became friends with the poor priest, and the temple became prosperous. The priest and his cat never went hungry again.
When Tama died he was buried in the Goutokuji Temple's cat cemetery with respect and love, and the Maneki Neko was made in honor of him. A Maneki Neko in your place of business, your home or on your website is said to bring in good luck and visitors.
Maneki Neko is Japanese for "beckoning cat." The message he's holding says "Please come in. You are welcome!" and he is beckoning you with his paw .