Cats. Some hate them, and others pretend to understand them.
Cats and humans have lived together for thousands of years, but we still don’t know if cats actually like us.
One minute they’re nuzzling our legs with their furry little heads, and the next they’re hissing at us with disdain because we tried to pet them.
Not all cats are bad, though. Some of them live in temples, dress up in robes, and help humans find inner peace.
‘Meow Meow Temple’ In Kyoto Has Cat Monks That Will Help You Find Inner Peace
Have you ever found yourself lacking in spirituality and thought, Man, I really need a cat to achieve a zen state of mind?
Yeah, me neither. But this might change your mind.
There is a temple in Kyoto called Nyan Nyan Ji, which translates to Meow Meow Temple. It’s a cat temple that is staffed by cat monks like this little guy below.
This white feline is Koyuki, the head monk who’ll greet you as you enter the temple. She’s also the most popular cat at Nyan Nyan Ji.
And with its friendly face, you can see why.
Don’t let its goofy face fool you though, Koyuki takes her responsibilities as head monk very seriously. According to one visitor, she has the role of “priest” at the temple.
She also has the ability to transform into a big ball of cotton wool when she’s resting.
We’re not sure what Koyuki is doing in this next picture, but we’re assuming that she forgot her monk duties for a second and slipped back into cat mode, ordering all humans to bow down to it.
But no one can do everything on their own. That’s why Koyuki has numerous other cat monks in the temple to help her out.
Reader: But I’m not looking for a feline spiritual experience
Well, what if I told you they also have a cat cafe?
Reader:
In addition to the temple, there is also a cat cafe where all the dishes are cat-themed.
In an interview with Bored Panda, the owner said: “Visitors who come to worship play with cats and enjoy cafes and cat art.”
So, if you’re ever holidaying Kyoto, check out this one of a kind cat temple. You’ll leave feeling spiritually satisfied after a day with these furry monks.
Address: Japan, 〒601-1253 Kyoto, Sakyo Ward, Yasekonoecho, 520
Opening hours: 11am-6pm (Japan Standard Time)
Contact number: Mondays to Sundays, closed on Tuesdays
Admission: Free
