Maneki-neko Day celebrates Japan's beckoning cat traditions

September 29 is recognized as ‘Maneki-neko Day’ in Japan, a date established by the Japan Maneki-neko Club using a wordplay on the numbers 9-2-9, which can be read as ‘kuru-fuku’ (bringing fortune). The day aims to promote the charm of these beckoning cat figurines and celebrate their role as symbols of good luck.

Maneki-neko figurines vary in meaning based on several physical attributes. The raised hand indicates the type of luck sought: the right hand is traditionally associated with wealth and fortune, while the left hand is intended to beckon customers or people. The height of the hand also carries significance, with hands at ear level representing near-future luck and higher hands representing long-term benefits.

Colors also dictate specific blessings, such as white for general good luck, black for protection against evil, gold for wealth, and red for health. While traditional colors were limited, modern variations include pink for romance and yellow for prosperity. Major production centers include Tokoname in Aichi Prefecture, with other notable areas in Seto and Takasaki. Various festivals, such as the ‘Kurufuku Maneki-neko Festival’ in Ise, Mie Prefecture, are held annually to commemorate the occasion.