Right Paw, Left Paw, or Both?
Do you know why that charming little cat raises its paw?
When inviting friends or business partners from abroad into a home or office, there’s often one object that immediately catches their attention—the Maneki-neko sitting quietly on a shelf.
“What is that cute cat?”
It’s a question that comes up almost without fail.
And yet, while many of us in Japan have grown up with it, being asked, “What’s the difference between the right and left paw?” can sometimes leave us unexpectedly unsure.
Through my own experience working with international partners, I’ve come to realize just how strong the interest is in Japanese lucky charms and decorative objects. The Maneki-neko, already known globally by its Japanese name, has become a popular item both as interior décor and as a gift.
But if you’re going to display one, it’s worth knowing what it represents.
So here, we’ll explore its origins—and the meaning behind those raised paws.
What Is a Maneki-neko?
The Maneki-neko is a figurine of a cat with one paw raised, believed to invite good fortune, prosperity, and success in business.
It is said to have originated in the late Edo period (around the 19th century), and became widely displayed in shops, restaurants, and entertainment districts.
There are several origin stories, including:
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Gotokuji Temple (Setagaya, Tokyo)
A feudal lord, Ii Naotaka, was said to have been beckoned by a cat during a thunderstorm—saving him from danger -
Imado Shrine (Asakusa, Tokyo)
A woman who had parted with her cat later dreamt of it, being told that recreating its image would bring good fortune -
Geisha and Shamisen tale (Shinjuku, Tokyo)
A cat pulling at a kimono hem led someone away just before a snake fell from the ceiling
Different stories, but one shared idea:
a cat that brings fortune.
Right Paw, Left Paw… What’s the Difference?
Have you ever picked up a Maneki-neko and noticed which paw it raises?
That detail changes its meaning.
🐱 Right paw raised
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What it invites: wealth and financial luck
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Meaning: believed to attract money and prosperity
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Best suited for: homes, personal spaces, financial offices
🐱 Left paw raised
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What it invites: people, customers, connections
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Meaning: draws in relationships and opportunities
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Best suited for: restaurants, retail shops, service counters
🐱 Both paws raised
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What it invites: everything—wealth and people
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Though sometimes interpreted as “both hands up” (a gesture of surrender), leading some to prefer the single-paw version for better luck
Choosing a Maneki-neko is, in a sense, choosing what you wish to invite into your life.
Coins and Colors — More Layers of Meaning
The coin often held by a Maneki-neko represents wealth.
Many feature the phrase sen man ryo (ten million gold coins), symbolizing abundant fortune.
Color, too, carries meaning:
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White: general good fortune and happiness
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Gold: wealth and financial success
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Black: protection from evil
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Red: health and safety
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Pink: love and relationships
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Green: academic success and safe travels
Understanding these meanings can make the act of choosing—or gifting—more intentional.
The Maneki-neko Today — From Ornament to Global Gift
Today, the Maneki-neko has moved beyond its role as a traditional lucky charm.
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As interior décor
Its simple form fits not only Japanese spaces but also modern interiors, making it appealing to those who want to incorporate a subtle touch of Japan -
As a business gift
A left-paw cat remains a classic choice for celebrating new openings or ventures -
As an international gift
Even a small note—“right paw for wealth, left for connections”—can deepen its meaning for the recipient
Perhaps sharing not just the object, but the story behind it, is what truly defines sharing culture.
A Quiet Gesture, Waiting
Within this small figure lies a surprising depth of meaning and history—that is the charm of the Maneki-neko.
On days when you wish to invite new connections, perhaps a white cat with its left paw raised is appropriate. When hoping for financial luck, a gold one with its right paw raised is appropriate.
Part of the joy lies in choosing, depending on the moment.
As a gift for someone special—or a small reward for yourself—
the Maneki-neko sits quietly, paw raised, waiting.
