Japanese lucky cats, or the correct term maneki-neko. It is the most popular lucky charm in Japanese culture. Japanese Lucky Cats are traditionally called maneki-neko, which literally translates to beckoning cat; their characteristically upright paw is said to beckon good fortune for their owner.

With a raised paw, pointy red ears, and coins and other accessories, maneki-neko have been bringing in luck and prosperity for centuries—and while the iconic statutes have varied origin stories, they all begin in Japan.

Small and large statues of the maneki neko can be found in places like temples, restaurants, and shops all over Japan. Generally, you could say that the maneki neko brings its owner luck and fortune, but there are some variations in its meaning depending on which hand makes the beckoning gesture. If the cat is waving its left paw, it is inviting customers into the store or restaurant behind it. When the right paw is up, the cat is inviting good fortune and money for the owner. A maneki neko with both paws raised is a bit more rare, but if you happen upon this type of lucky cat it is providing its owners with protection. They also say that the higher the paw(s) is raised, the stronger its lucky effect will be.