Looking for a quiet escape just 15 minutes from central Tokyo?
Gotokuji, a peaceful town filled with lucky cats and gentle streets,
is the kind of place that turns a short trip into a story.

Ride a vintage tram, stroll temple paths, and spot cats—real and symbolic—everywhere you go.
It’s calm, curious, and quietly delightful.


1. Start from Sangenjaya, ride the Cat Tram

Take the Tokyu Setagaya Line from Sangenjaya Station.
This charming tram line runs through quiet neighborhoods,
and if you’re lucky, you might catch the special cat-themed tram,
which operates only at certain times of the day.

The ride itself is short but full of warmth—like a moving postcard through local Tokyo.


2. Arrive at Yamashita, then walk to Gotokuji

Get off at Yamashita Station,
and in just a few minutes on foot, you'll reach Gotokuji Station.
Here, you can pick up a paper map of the area—a cute, hand-illustrated guide
that also includes a stamp rally for travelers who love collecting little memories.


3. Gotokuji Temple, where hundreds of lucky cats await

Step into Gotokuji Temple, the birthplace of Japan’s famous maneki-neko (beckoning cat).
The temple grounds are quiet and serene,
but one corner overflows with rows and rows of white cat statues,
each left by visitors hoping for good fortune.

It’s a peaceful, almost surreal sight that makes you stop and smile.


4. Cat-themed details around every corner

The charm of Gotokuji doesn’t stop at the temple.
The entire town is sprinkled with cat motifs—on signs, shops, cafés, and benches.
Wander slowly, and you’ll find cats looking back at you from unexpected places.

A stroll through these streets feels like a treasure hunt with soft paws and quiet joy.

♥️ Editor’s Tip
You can use IC cards on the tram.
To catch the Cat Tram, check the operation times at the station.
On a sunny day, pack a small lunch and enjoy it near the temple park for a perfect mini escape.