Maneki-neko Painting in Onomichi | A 2-Hour Experience at Hodoji Temple's Kannon Hall

Paint your own lucky cat in a temple hall at Hodoji

This experience is run by "Onomichi Kobutsu Maneki-neko Studio" (おのみち小物 招き猫工房), located inside Hodoji Kannon Hall. In Onomichi, a town well loved as a "cat town," you'll paint a maneki-neko, the beckoning cat believed to bring good luck.

You'll start with a ready-made white papier-mâché cat. Choose any colors and patterns you like to finish a one-of-a-kind figure. Your completed maneki-neko comes home with you the same day, making it a lovely souvenir of your trip to Onomichi or a gift for someone special.

First, think about colors and patterns

Look through the samples and imagine what kind of lucky cat you'd like to make. You're free to use your favorite colors, or even take inspiration from the markings of your own cat at home.

Instructions are also available in video form in English, Chinese (Traditional and Simplified), and French. Even if it's your first time, you can follow along using the samples and videos.

Next, sketch your design and start painting

Once you've settled on a design, sketch it out in pencil. Then paint the large areas first, and finish the details, such as the face and body patterns, last.

The way you paint the eyes and combine colors can completely change your cat's expression. If you're joining with family or friends, it's fun to show each other your work as you go.

Finally, take a photo with your finished cat

When the painting is done, pose with your creation at the Japanese-style photo spot. Be sure to take a close-up too, so the face and patterns you painted really stand out.

This plan also includes a tenugui (traditional Japanese cotton towel) with an auspicious pattern. Together with your maneki-neko, it makes a memorable souvenir from Onomichi.

FAQ

■ Can I join if I've never painted before? Yes. With sample designs and instructional videos, beginners can take part with confidence.

■ Can I join if I don't speak Japanese? Instructional videos are available in English, Chinese (Traditional and Simplified), and French. Please note that staff communicate mainly in Japanese.

■ Can children take part? The studio's basic requirement is age 3 and over, and elementary school children and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Please also check the age requirements and accompaniment rules for the plan you book.

■ Can I take my maneki-neko home the same day? Yes. You can take your finished piece home that day.

■ Where is the studio? It's "Onomichi Kobutsu Maneki-neko Studio" inside Hodoji Kannon Hall, at 10-3 Higashitsuchidocho, Onomichi, Hiroshima. The path to the studio includes slopes and stairs, so please wear comfortable walking shoes.

Things to check before booking

• Dates, times, and the approximately 2-hour duration
• Access to the studio, including slopes and stairs
• Age requirements and conditions for accompanying children
• What's included in the price, and change/cancellation policies

Before booking, please check the latest information for the plan you choose.

Summary

At Onomichi Kobutsu Maneki-neko Studio in Onomichi, Hiroshima, you can spend about two hours freely painting your own maneki-neko. Sample designs and video guides in English, Chinese, and French make it approachable even for first-timers. It has a rating of 4.9 (10 reviews).

Afterward, enjoy a commemorative photo at the Japanese-style photo spot and receive a tenugui towel with a lucky pattern. On your trip to Onomichi, the town on the hills, add a handmade good-luck charm to your memories.

For details and availability, see Hiroshima Onomichi: Maneki-neko Painting Experience (with Tenugui).