We appreciate your choice of Tokyo Free Walking Tour in Asakusa on 22nd January. Five guests from New Zealand, Spain, Britain, America and Bolivia were welcomed. The weather was mild in the middle of winter. Although the Nakamise Shopping Street was crowded with people, we hope you enjoyed exploring Sensoji Temple and Asakusa Shrine areas. As promised the photos we took during the tour are posted for your memory.
Maneki-Neko, beckoning cats are one of the popular lucky cats sold at the Sensoji Nakamise Shopping Street. One of our guests asked about their origin during the tour. His belief was that they originated in China because they were sold in the local China Town. Maneki-Neko is definitely the Japanese origin.
There is a shrine named Imado Shrine in Asakusa. It is known as one of the birthplaces of Maneki-Neko along with Gotokuji Temple in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo. Imado shrine is relatively small but eye-catching. The main building was originally built in 1063. The previous building was destroyed by WWⅡ air raids and the solemn building was rebuilt in 1971. There are many large and small Maneki-Neko seen all over the grounds and the shrine building.
Imado ware flourished as a representative piece of pottery during the Edo period(1603-1867). Clay suitable for pottery was available in the area of Imado. One night a poor old woman who reluctantly released her pet cat had a divine dream. The cat mysteriously appeared in her dream and told her that she could receive blessings if the cat was made into a doll. When she had the doll made, clay dolls were sold at the precincts of Sensoji Temple. Imado ware which was made at doll pottery became popular among visitors. Thus, the old woman became happy and benefited from it. This is another theory of the origin of Maneki-Neko.
There is a pair of stone beckoning cats beside the shrine building. Gentle stroking will bring you good luck. According to legend, the shrine is dedicated to the god of matchmaking and romantic relationships.
The shrine is not far from Sensoji Temple. It is about 1 kilometer from the Kaminarimon gate. Visiting the shrine and strolling around deep Asakusa will be a fun experience for you. Thank you for choosing Tokyo Free Walking Tour and we are excited to see you again on our other tours in the future.
(Yoshi)