Tokyo, Japan, is renowned for its vibrant cafe culture, offering a unique twist with its array of animal cafes. From cuddly cats to wise owls and playful hedgehogs, Tokyo’s animal cafes provide visitors with a chance to interact closely with various animals while enjoying a relaxing cup of coffee or tea. This article explores the diverse world of animal cafes in Tokyo, providing comprehensive information for visitors looking to experience these delightful establishments.
List of Animal Cafes in Tokyo
Neko no Jikan
Location: 1-16-2 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Description: Neko no Jikan is one of Tokyo’s oldest cat cafes, featuring a cozy atmosphere with a wide variety of cats to interact with. The cafe offers beverages and snacks, along with opportunities to play and relax with the resident cats.
Reviews & Ratings: Highly rated for cleanliness and the friendly nature of the cats.
Calico Cat Cafe
Location: 1-16-2 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Description: Calico Cat Cafe is known for its spacious environment and large selection of cats, including rare breeds. The cafe offers themed events and has separate areas for playing and lounging with the cats.
Reviews & Ratings: Popular among visitors for its cleanliness and the variety of cats available.
Akiba Fukurou
Location: 67 Kanda Neribeicho, Chiyoda, Tokyo
Description: Akiba Fukurou is a popular owl cafe located in Akihabara. It offers a unique experience to interact with various owl species in a calm and controlled environment. The cafe emphasizes education about owls and their habitats.
Reviews & Ratings: Highly praised for its knowledgeable staff and the well-being of the owls.
Fukuro no Mise
Location: 1-7-13 Kiba, Koto, Tokyo
Description: Fukuro no Mise is another prominent owl cafe in Tokyo, known for its serene atmosphere and diverse owl collection. The cafe provides educational sessions about owls and offers opportunities for photography with the owls.
Reviews & Ratings: Commended for its educational approach and the welfare of the owls.
Harry Hedgehog Cafe
Location: 1-13-9 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Description: Harry Hedgehog Cafe allows visitors to interact with adorable hedgehogs in a comfortable setting. The cafe provides guidance on handling hedgehogs gently and offers snacks and drinks during the visit.
Reviews & Ratings: Well-regarded for its cleanliness and the health of the hedgehogs.
HARRY Harajuku
Location: 1-13-11 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
Description: HARRY Harajuku is a cozy hedgehog cafe known for its friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy observing and holding hedgehogs while learning about their care.
Reviews & Ratings: Highly rated for its informative sessions and the well-being of the hedgehogs.
Ra.a.g.f Rabbit Cafe
Location: 1-10-5 Higashiikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo
Description: Ra.a.g.f Rabbit Cafe offers a serene environment to interact with cute rabbits. The cafe provides a variety of snacks and drinks, and visitors can enjoy feeding and playing with the rabbits in designated areas.
Reviews & Ratings: Praised for the cleanliness of the facility and the friendliness of the rabbits.
Usagi Cafe Ohisama
Location: 1-13-2 Jiyugaoka, Meguro, Tokyo
Description: Usagi Cafe Ohisama is a charming rabbit cafe known for its relaxing atmosphere and adorable rabbits. The cafe offers experiences such as rabbit grooming sessions and photo opportunities with the rabbits.
Reviews & Ratings: Popular among visitors for its attentive staff and the health of the rabbits.
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Practical Information for Visitors
Admission Fees & Reservations
Admission fees typically range from 500 to 2000 yen per hour, depending on the cafe and the day of the week. Some cafes offer packages that include drinks and snacks with the entry fee. It is advisable to make reservations, especially on weekends and holidays, as many cafes have limited seating due to high demand.
Opening Hours
Most animal cafes in Tokyo are open from late morning to early evening, with specific hours varying by location. Some cafes may close on certain days of the week for cleaning or maintenance, so it is recommended to check the cafe’s website or call ahead to confirm their operating hours.
Rules & Etiquette
Respect the Animals: Handle animals gently and follow the cafe’s guidelines for interaction.
No Flash Photography: Avoid using flash photography, as it can startle or distress the animals.
Wash Hands: Clean hands before and after interacting with animals to maintain hygiene.
Observe Quiet: Maintain a calm and quiet demeanor to ensure the animals’ comfort.
Transportation Information
To Neko no Jikan (Cat Cafe, Shinjuku):
By Train: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Shinjuku Station. The cafe is a 5-minute walk from the East Exit.
By Metro: Take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Shinjuku-sanchome Station. It’s a 7-minute walk from Exit C8.
To Akiba Fukurou (Owl Cafe, Akihabara):
By Train: Take the JR Yamanote Line or the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line to Akihabara Station. The cafe is a 5-minute walk from the Electric Town Exit.
To Harry Hedgehog Cafe (Hedgehog Cafe, Shibuya):
By Train: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station. The cafe is a 10-minute walk from the station.
To Ra.a.g.f Rabbit Cafe (Rabbit Cafe, Ikebukuro):
By Train: Take the JR Yamanote Line or Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Ikebukuro Station. The cafe is a 5-minute walk from the West Exit.
Additional Tips for a Memorable Experience
Best Time to Visit
Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, making them ideal for a more relaxed experience. Early mornings or late afternoons are also quieter times to visit, allowing for more interaction with the animals.
Things to Bring
Snacks: Some cafes allow visitors to feed the animals approved snacks. Check the cafe’s rules beforehand.
Camera: Capture memorable moments without disturbing the animals. Avoid using flash photography.
Comfortable Attire: Wear comfortable clothes suitable for sitting on the floor or interacting with animals.
Photography Tips
Natural Light: Use natural light whenever possible for better-quality photos.
Focus on Expressions: Capture the unique personalities of the animals without overwhelming them.
Respect Privacy: Avoid taking photos of other visitors without their permission.
Ethical Considerations
Animal Welfare
The welfare of animals in cafes is a significant concern. Reputable animal cafes prioritize the well-being of their animals by providing adequate space, enrichment activities, and regular veterinary care. It is essential for visitors to choose cafes that adhere to ethical standards and treat their animals with respect and care.
Responsible Tourism
Visitors should engage responsibly with animals by following the cafe’s rules and guidelines. Avoid visiting overcrowded cafes or those with questionable animal welfare practices. Supporting cafes that prioritize animal welfare helps promote responsible tourism and ensures a positive experience for both visitors and animals.
Conclusion
By exploring Tokyo’s animal cafes, visitors can enjoy memorable experiences while respecting the well-being of the adorable animals that call these cafes home. Whether you’re a cat lover, owl enthusiast, or simply curious about unique cafe experiences, Tokyo’s animal cafes offer something special for everyone to enjoy.