The temple earned the nickname 'Cat Temple' due to the high volume of abandoned cats cared for by the resident monks.
The resident monks manage the health, feeding, and adoption processes for dozens of felines simultaneously.
A portion of the temple's donations is dedicated exclusively to the medical and dietary needs of the rescued cats.
The temple holds an annual memorial service for deceased cats, acknowledging them as part of the temple community.
It is a fully functioning Soto Zen temple where religious training and meditation continue alongside cat rescue operations.
Gotanjoji is a Soto Zen temple in Echizen, Fukui, widely recognized for its active role as a rescue sanctuary for abandoned cats. The temple was founded by the monk Taio Ishida, who began taking in stray cats in the early 2000s. Visitors frequently encounter dozens of felines roaming the temple grounds, which are maintained by resident monks and volunteers. The temple is formally associated with the Sōtō school of Buddhism. Its architecture reflects traditional Japanese temple design with integrated living spaces for the rescued animals. The facility serves as both a place of worship and a functional animal shelter, drawing visitors interested in the intersection of spiritual practice and animal welfare.
The main temple courtyard area where cats often congregate near the wooden pillars and garden stones.
Check the temple's official Facebook page for the most recent updates on visiting policies regarding the cats.
If you intend to make a donation, ensure it is placed in the designated boxes specifically marked for animal care.
Maintain a respectful distance from the cats if they are sleeping or eating to avoid causing them stress.
Do not attempt to pick up or carry the cats, as many are strays and may be skittish. Do not treat the temple as a petting zoo; prioritize the animals' comfort.
Remove shoes when entering temple buildings. Maintain a quiet tone. Do not feed the cats human food without express permission from the monks.
