This one’s pure charm—Gōtokuji Temple is where the maneki-neko (beckoning cat) legend lives. Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, this temple is known for its army of white cats with little red collars, all sitting in perfect stillness and somehow making you smile the second you see them.

It’s not huge or flashy, but that’s what makes it special. The peaceful atmosphere, the soft sounds of the wind through the trees, and those hundreds (maybe thousands?) of lucky cats make it feel almost surreal. I love coming here when I need a breather from the city—it’s the kind of spot where you can slow down and just enjoy the weird, wonderful quiet.

Best Time to Photograph:
Late morning or just before closing, when the light is soft and there are fewer people around. Bring a longer lens to isolate details—or go wide to capture the sea of paws and smiles.