Tokonyan

The basics

Many travelers visit Tokonyan independently from Tokoname station by following Tokoname Maneki Neko Street (Tokoname Lucky Cat Street); the street is decorated with 39 clay cats that have been handmade by local artists. Visitors following the path can read about the artists and what the artwork represents. After getting a photo of Tokonyan, it’s worth picking up a map from the Tourist Information Center and choosing to explore either Pottery Walking Trail A or B.

Things to know before you go

• When shopping for souvenirs to take home from Tokoname, then a lucky cat is a good choice: The city is Japan’s biggest producer of ceramic lucky cats.
• If traveling by train to Tokoname, try and reserve a seat in the first carriage for a great photo opportunity of Tokonyan.
• You can’t get close to the statue as it’s beside a fence.
• Anime fans should seek out the movie A Whisker Away, which is set in Tokoname.

How to get there

The easiest way to reach Tokonyan is to walk from Tokoname station, accessible via the Meitetsu Tokoname Line. You can get to Tokoname from major cities, such as Nagoya and Osaka. From the station, it's a short and scenic walk to the hillside where Tokonyan is located. Alternatively, take a taxi from the station.

When to get there

The best time to visit Tokoname is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the most comfortable temperatures, with ideal lighting for photos. Visiting on weekdays helps avoid the weekend crowds, offering a more peaceful experience to see Tokonyan and explore the surrounding area.

Where to buy pottery in Tokoname

Tokoname offers numerous places to buy great pottery. Start at the Tokoname Pottery Footpath, where you'll find endless galleries, workshops, and ceramic shops. For beautiful cups or bowls, visit Issei-Touen Tokoname; for vases, teapots, or coffee pots, head to Yohen; and if you're feeling creative, make your own pottery at the Tokoname Store.