Can you imagine how Maneki-Neko can become an exhibit in an art museum? In the city of Okayama (岡山 市) in Okayama Prefecture (岡山 県), there is a Maneki-Neko art museum (招 き 猫 美術館) in which Maneki-Neko is raised to the level of works of art. The museum’s first director was attracted to Maneki-neko statues, which were considered a popular art form in Japan since the Meiji period (明治 時代) and began collecting various types of Maneki- different neko. This eventually led to the establishment of the art museum on October 10, 1994, with his extensive collection.

Since its inception, the museum has been actively involved in searching, researching, collecting, exhibiting, and promoting Maneki-Neko. There are 700 permanent Maneki-Neko displays from the Meiji period to date made from a variety of materials such as paper, wood, pottery, stone, soil, and tin.

Besides enjoying different themed or seasonal exhibits depending on when you arrive, you can also try drawing your own Maneki-Neko statues made of ceramic. However, please note that this painting costs 1,200 yen / person, and is only held on weekends and public holidays from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm at LUCKY CATS HOME, an exhibition space. another is located in the same area. If you plan to visit in a group of at least 15 people, you can contact the art museum in advance to arrange weekend classes or weekdays.

While you’re here, don’t forget to visit the museum’s souvenir shop, which sells a variety of locally produced Maneki-Neko statues and other related products. Some of the designs sold here can’t be found anywhere else, so pay attention to these special designs! If you want to try drawing a Maneki-Neko statue at home, you can also buy a plain version here and show your creativity. Except for Wednesdays, Obon holidays, national holidays, December 31, and January 1, the museum is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Enjoy a dinner with the Maneki-Neko cats

Do you want to drink something, enjoy music in a space surrounded by 2,000 Maneki-Neko statues? JazzBar Samurai (JazzBar サ ム ラ イ) is the place for you! Maneki-Neko has a cute appearance and is considered a lucky symbol of fortune, you would think it is difficult to fit in a jazz bar. But JazzBar Samurai will surprise and delight you. Located in Tokyo’s Shinjuku (新宿 区) district (東京), the shop started its business in 1979 and is open daily from 6:00 PM to 1:00 PM! Besides the regular alcoholic drinks, you can find at the bar, you can sip a variety of Western and Japanese dishes like pizza, fried rice, salads, omelet, and pasta while Soothing jazz background. A variety of Maneki-Neko statues decorated here will definitely be a visual feast for you, so don’t miss this place for an interesting blend of ceramic cats and drinks.