• In the early days, dagashiya were small, family-owned shops that sold a wide variety of candies and other small snacks. The snacks were typically sold in small portions, were very affordable and had a long shelf life. They were popular with children and working-class adults who couldn't afford more expensive treats.
  • In the early days, dagashiya were small, family-owned shops that sold a wide variety of candies and other small snacks. The snacks were typically sold in small portions, were very affordable and had a long shelf life. They were popular with children and working-class adults who couldn't afford more expensive treats.
  • In the early days, dagashiya were small, family-owned shops that sold a wide variety of candies and other small snacks. The snacks were typically sold in small portions, were very affordable and had a long shelf life. They were popular with children and working-class adults who couldn't afford more expensive treats.
  • In the early days, dagashiya were small, family-owned shops that sold a wide variety of candies and other small snacks. The snacks were typically sold in small portions, were very affordable and had a long shelf life. They were popular with children and working-class adults who couldn't afford more expensive treats.
  • In the early days, dagashiya were small, family-owned shops that sold a wide variety of candies and other small snacks. The snacks were typically sold in small portions, were very affordable and had a long shelf life. They were popular with children and working-class adults who couldn't afford more expensive treats.
  • In the early days, dagashiya were small, family-owned shops that sold a wide variety of candies and other small snacks. The snacks were typically sold in small portions, were very affordable and had a long shelf life. They were popular with children and working-class adults who couldn't afford more expensive treats.
  • In the early days, dagashiya were small, family-owned shops that sold a wide variety of candies and other small snacks. The snacks were typically sold in small portions, were very affordable and had a long shelf life. They were popular with children and working-class adults who couldn't afford more expensive treats.
  • In the early days, dagashiya were small, family-owned shops that sold a wide variety of candies and other small snacks. The snacks were typically sold in small portions, were very affordable and had a long shelf life. They were popular with children and working-class adults who couldn't afford more expensive treats.
  • In the early days, dagashiya were small, family-owned shops that sold a wide variety of candies and other small snacks. The snacks were typically sold in small portions, were very affordable and had a long shelf life. They were popular with children and working-class adults who couldn't afford more expensive treats.
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JapanDownUnder

antique maneki neko sweet shop glass display jar with metal lid

antique maneki neko sweet shop glass display jar with metal lid

¥41,520 JPY
¥41,520 JPY
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Love Japanese Style Like We Do

Add a touch of cultural charm and whimsy to your space with this rare, antique glass display jar, beautifully shaped like the iconic Japanese maneki neko (lucky cat). Once a staple in the front of traditional Japanese dagashiya - small snack shops selling affordable treats for children - this piece seamlessly combines history and personality, making it a delightful addition to any room.

Dagashiya shops used these glass jars to showcase snacks, inviting customers with their vibrant contents on full display. Shaped like the maneki neko, this jar not only appealed to children with its adorable design, but also symbolized good fortune, wealth, and the ability to “beckon” customers through its signature pose. Its playful yet symbolic form makes it a true conversation starter and a unique piece for any collector of vintage items or lovers of Japanese culture.

Crafted from delicate, thin glass, this piece features subtle black and red paintwork that forms the cat’s collar, face, ears, and paws - though the paint has gently faded over time, enhancing its vintage allure. The metal alloy lid shows signs of age with some dents and a soft, warm patina. Despite its age, the jar remains in very good structural condition, free from any cracks or chips, making it a sturdy and enduring collectible.

A perfect addition to any kitchen shelf, maneki neko collection, or eclectic home décor, this hard-to-find jar brings both history and a bit of luck wherever it is placed.

- measures around 31 cm (12.2”) tall x 18 cm (7.1”) across x 15 cm (6”) deep.
- weighs 1,170 gm.

(listing for glass cat container only)
 
SHIPPING INFORMATION
- please read our shipping notes in shipping policy. 
- we use recycle packaging wherever possible and wrap for safety, rather than appearance!

ABOUT OUR VINTAGE, ANTIQUE AND OTHER ITEMS
We list pieces we feel are worthy of display. There may be scratches, dents, fading and signs of wear and tear. We try to explain the condition of each item exactly, but may miss something.

Information regarding the item and it’s age is obtained from dealers and our personal research. We do our best to give you the correct information but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this information.

Please message us prior to purchase with any questions you may have about our products.

DAGASHI AND DAGASHIYA
Dagashiya were Japanese shops specializing in selling inexpensive sweets and snacks, called ’dagashi.’  These shops have a long history in Japan, dating back to the early 20th century.

In the early days, dagashiya were small, family-owned shops that sold a wide variety of candies and other small snacks. The snacks were typically sold in small portions, were very affordable and had a long shelf life. They were popular with children and working-class adults who couldn't afford more expensive treats.

During the post-World War II era, dagashiya became even more popular as Japan's economy began to recover. As customer disposable income increased,  the shops expanded their offerings to include toys, games, and other small items that appealed to children and young people. Candy sticks, gummy candies, chocolate-filled snacks,  traditional Japanese treats like rice crackers and senbei, small toys, stickers and keychains could be found.

Glass jars, with a metal lid, were popular to display the snacks as they allowed customers to see the colorful treats inside. Over time, the design of the jars evolved, and they began to take on different shapes, including the maneki neko cat, a popular symbol of good luck in Japanese culture. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, the glass jars also protected the snacks from moisture and dust, keeping them fresh.


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