Unrinji Temple (Cat Temple)

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Unrin-ji Temple in Hagi City, commonly known as the "Cat Temple," is a unique Buddhist temple that attracts cat lovers from all over the world. Its origin lies in a story of loyalty from the Edo period, where a samurai's pet cat died of grief at its master's grave. Today, the temple grounds are lined with hundreds of wooden cat sculptures and figurines, and you can encounter cute cats wherever you look. In particular, "cat head masks" that you can wear for photos, as well as Goshuin (temple stamps) and charms with cat illustrations, are very popular with international tourists. While it has a playful atmosphere, it also maintains the sacred air of a quiet mountain temple, providing a special healing space where Japanese history and humor merge.