What's with the waving cat in Chinese restaurants?
James Craig
Updated on May 18, 2026
Herein, what are those waving Chinese cats called?
??), literally meaning "beckoning cat", is a common Japanese figurine (lucky charm, talisman) which is often believed to bring good luck to the owner. In modern times, they are usually made of ceramic or plastic.
Secondly, what does the Lucky Cat coin say? ????). This is a cat that beckons you to good fortune. The pendant on her collar says fuku (?) and means, luck. The coin like object says sen man ryou (???) and means 10 million gold pieces.
Also, why does the lucky cat wave?
It is also called Lucky Cat, Money Cat or Welcoming Cat. In Japan, it is known as Maneki Neko, and it always stands at the main entrance of a shop and “wave” to bring the good luck into the owner's shop.
Is Lucky Cat Japanese or Chinese?
The Maneki Neko is sometimes thought to be of Chinese origin rather than Japanese, and is mistakenly referred to as a Chinese Lucky Cat. This is due to its popularity and presence within Chinese communities. It's commonly believed the higher the raised paw of the Maneki Neko, the greater the luck.