MARUSHIME Lucky Cat

MARUSHIME is a Lucky Cat brand born in Asakusa, with its gallery and workshop located along Nishi-sando, just west of Senso-ji Temple.

At the heart of the brand is the Marushime Cat, a Lucky Cat said to have become extremely popular in Asakusa during the late Edo period. Its distinctive form can be found in historical documents and ukiyo-e prints from the Edo period, and it is regarded as one of the early roots of Japan’s Lucky Cat (maneki-neko) tradition.

Unlike the familiar Lucky Cat that faces directly forward, the Marushime Cat sits with its body turned sideways while its face looks toward you. This distinctive pose gives it an independent, almost aloof character, while reflecting the refined sense of iki associated with Edo culture.

On its back is the distinctive “Marushime” mark. The name carries the auspicious meaning of attracting good fortune and keeping that fortune close.

MARUSHIME carries forward the history, story, and distinctive form of the Marushime Cat, which was loved in Asakusa more than 170 years ago, creating pieces that feel at home in contemporary life. The collection includes models inspired by traditional Japanese colors, seasonal limited editions, and collaborations with artists.

With its soft curves and minimalist form, the Marushime Cat blends naturally into both Japanese and contemporary interiors. Beyond being a lucky charm, it is gaining attention among visitors from Japan and abroad as an art piece, a meaningful gift, and a special memory of a journey to Asakusa.

Just as people in Edo once placed their hopes for good fortune in this small cat, visitors to Asakusa today can encounter one of their own and take its story home with them.

A Lucky Cat born and loved in Asakusa more than 170 years ago can be encountered once again in the very place where its story began.