Maneki Neko is considered to be a very lucky cat in Japanese society. You will see the cat displayed in stores and in restaurants; in fact many businesses have the fortune cat on show to beckon in new customers.

Traditionally the figurine is made from ceramic, papier mache or sometimes wood, modern versions of the cat are often plastic. Opulent examples of the Japanese lucky cat can be found made of jade or even gold.

Nowadays the fortune cat's image is used for coin banks, key chains, bobbling car dashboard ornaments, decals, and many other novelties. It is often used in Japanese corporate advertising.