Miyawaka Oidashi neko hompo

This beckoning cat was created from the story of a cat that threw itself into the air to save a monk at Saifukuji Temple from being harmed by rats about 400 years ago. It has faces on both sides. The front side has an angry face glaring at the cat with a broom to drive away misfortune, and the back side has a smiling face inviting happiness. When decorating, the angry face should be placed in front. Various types of Oidashi Neko are sold at stores. During the examination season, “Sakura Sakuko-chan,” a cat with a hachimaki that invites success, is very popular.

Visitors can also try their hand at painting the “Miyawaka Oidashi Neko”. After learning the origin of “Oidashi Neko” through a picture-story show, visitors can start the process. Using color pens that are easy for even children to handle, visitors color the palm-sized unglazed dolls. You can follow the model or create your own original cat.