A temple cat at Xi Yuan Temple in Suzhou, China, has captured the internet’s heart with its unique greeting—a playful high-five “blessing” for visitors. Adorned with a chunky gold chain, the feline extends its paw to greet guests, creating a heartwarming spectacle that has drawn massive crowds and sparked a viral social media sensation.
A Unique Blessing
The adorable cat, which has become the unofficial mascot of Xi Yuan Temple (also known as the Temple of West Garden), is famous for its unusual ritual. Visitors to the temple are greeted with a high-five as the cat raises its paw, as if bestowing good fortune. This endearing behavior has become a symbol of the temple’s welcoming spirit, and many devotees and tourists are lining up to experience the cat’s “blessing” first-hand.
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Social Media Frenzy
The viral video, originally shared on Instagram by the account China Focus, quickly garnered attention with the caption: “In Suzhou, the adorable little cat at the West Garden Temple, sporting a gold chain, is giving high-fives and posing for photos with visitors. It seems to spread blessings and good luck all around.” Suzhou Tourism’s official Instagram page also highlighted the phenomenon, posting, “Pawsitive Vibes Only! This temple cat in Xi Yuan Temple, Suzhou is blessing visitors with high-fives—and the internet can’t get enough.”
Netizens have flooded social media with reactions. One user commented, “Cats are adored everywhere,” while another hoped the feline received donations for a plate of fresh fish every night. The lighthearted banter has only amplified the cat’s fame, turning it into a must-see attraction.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Xi Yuan Temple, a renowned Buddhist temple in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, dates back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD) and has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries. With its beautiful traditional architecture, comprising halls, pavilions, and meticulously maintained gardens, the temple remains an important center of Buddhism in China. The viral cat moment adds a modern twist to the temple’s rich heritage, blending centuries-old traditions with contemporary digital culture.
A Must-Visit Attraction
Thanks to the viral phenomenon, Xi Yuan Temple has seen a surge in visitors eager to witness the famous high-five blessing. The heartwarming ritual not only enhances the temple’s charm but also symbolizes the unity of cultures and the power of art in modern storytelling.