Maneki Nekos

MANEKI NEKO literally means “beckoning cat” in Japanese.It is one of the most common lucky charms in Japan and is believed to attract wealth.

Since they are believed to attract business and promote prosperity,they are frequently found in shop windows beckoning to passersby.

Interestingly,a  raised left paw attracts money, while a raised right paw protects it and the higher the paw is raised, the greater the attraction or protection.

Maneki Neko are often depicted holding a coin; usually a gold coin called a koban , used during the Edo period in Japan.The coin obviously ties into the cat’s part in bringing good fortune and wealth.

I think I’ll bring back a Maneki Neko piggy-bank from Japan.After all I love cats and could always use a little extra help making money!