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HISTORY/CULTURE

The Waving Cats That Connect Us All

A symbol of good luck, fortune, and happiness

B.R. Shenoy
Digital Global Traveler
3 min readJan 2, 2025

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Waving cats
Giant wall of waving cats at Houston’s Bush Airport/Credit:

“In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this.” ― Terry Pratchett

There’s something about the giant wall of waving cats at Houston’s Bush Airport that always makes me smile. It’s unexpected, whimsical, and just plain fun. Every time I pass by, I’m instantly transported back to my family’s years in Japan.

We lived as American expats in Yokohama for three years many years ago. Back then, the Maneki-neko the little waving cat — was everywhere. Restaurants, shops, and businesses would always have one near the entrance. It seemed to beckon you inside, promising good luck and prosperity.

At the time, I didn’t think much of it. Now, looking back, it feels special.

In Asian cultures, the waving cat is a powerful symbol. It represents good luck, fortune, and happiness. The details of the design are full of meaning. A cat with its right paw raised brings wealth and good luck. The left paw? That one attracts customers to a business. Sometimes, you’ll even…

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Digital Global Traveler
Digital Global Traveler

Published in Digital Global Traveler

This publication is dedicated to learning about the world around us. The topics covered here range from travel and geography to languages and cultures.

B.R. Shenoy
B.R. Shenoy

Written by B.R. Shenoy

Former Nomad/Expat on 3 Continents•Editor: The Shortform, Dancing Elephants Press, Good Vibes Club, & The Heritage Pub•MS Toxicology• BS Biochemistry•Mom of 2

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