In China, Japan, Taiwan or Thailand she stands in front of shops, department stores and restaurants. In her right hand she holds the Koban, a gold coin that means boundless wealth. The Maneki Neko probably originated in Japan in the 17th century. In a storm a travelling prince was waved into a temple by a cat. Immediately afterwards, lightning struck the aristocrat's previous location. Out of gratitude for his life, he bestowed prosperity and glory on the temple.