What country has the lucky cat?

Inquiring minds often want to know, what country holds the prized icon of good fortune and prosperity, the lucky cat? This charming figurine, often depicted with a raised paw, is a beloved symbol in many cultures, but where did it originate? Could it be from the ancient temples of Japan, where it is said to bring wealth and happiness to those who display it? Or perhaps it hails from the bustling streets of China, where merchants prize it for its ability to attract customers and prosperity? The question remains, what country has the lucky cat, and how did it become such a ubiquitous symbol of good luck?