Maneki-neko are traditionally depicted seated, holding a koban coin, with one paw raised in a beckoning gesture. To some Westerners ( Italians , Spaniards and Greeks are notable exceptions) it may seem as if the maneki-neko is waving rather than beckoning.

A catgirl (Japanese: 猫耳, Hepburn: nekomimi, lit. 'cat ear [s]')[a] or neko is a young female character with feline traits, such as cat ears, a tail, or other feline characteristics on an otherwise human body. As a type of kemonomimi, catgirls are associated with Japanese anime and manga but may appear in other genres.

Jan 9, 2018 · Maneki Neko, the origins and meaning of the Lucky Cats of Japan. Why are they waving, where did they come from and why do we love them so much?

Mar 3, 2025 · Maneki-Neko is sometimes called the Chinese or Japanese Waving Cat, though it’s not actually waving. In Japanese culture, unlike Western cultures, holding your hand with your palm forward and your fingers pointing down is the way to beckon someone over to you.

Mar 3, 2024 · Named maneki-neko in Japanese (literally “beckoning cat”), the figurine—true to its name and contrary to popular belief—is not actually waving. In Japan, unlike in Western cultures, the way to beckon someone over to you is palm forward, fingers pointing down.

Dec 8, 2022 · What is a Maneki Neko? The Maneki Neko, or Fortune Cat, is a common good-luck symbol in Japanese and Chinese culture. Many people believe that displaying a Maneki Neko will bring the owner luck and prosperity. Yet, beyond fortune, Maneki Neko holds deeper meanings of Japanese traditions that most people are unaware of.

May 16, 2013 · There are also westernized maneki neko with the paw facing the opposite direction, mimicking the western style of beckoning. These beckoning cats are sometimes depicted with coins with dollar signs on them, earning them the name "dollar cats."

Jul 26, 2021 · In Western culture, domestic cats make great pets. But in Japanese folklore, feline friends have protective powers and symbolize good fortune. Knowing this, it should come as no surprise that the maneki-neko is believed to represent one particularly legendary cat.

Nov 17, 2019 · These adorable beckoning cat figurines are brimming with fun facts and make a fun addition to your home decor. Here are just a few conversation starters you can use. 1. Maneki Neko Means Beckoning Cat. The Japanese phrase “Maneki Neko” is literally translated to mean “beckoning cat.”

Jan 7, 2022 · What is the maneki neko? First of all, "maneki neko" in Japanese (招 き 猫) literally means "the beckoning cat" or "the cat that invites". A traditional Japanese good luck charm depicted as a cat sitting, smiling and raising one or two front paws.