Exploring Tokyo’s animal cafes offers a unique way to connect with various creatures, from fluffy cats and energetic dogs to exotic birds and even serene snakes. Here’s a curated list of seven highly recommended animal cafes in Tokyo that are not only popular among locals and tourists but have also garnered attention on Instagram and TikTok for their unique experiences and adorable inhabitants.
Cat Café Mocha – Harajuku
- Address: Jingūmae 1-14-25 Cross Avenue Harajuku 4F, Shibuya, Tokyo
- Hours: 10:00 am–8:00 pm
- Closed Day: NA
- Fee: ￥1,100 (including one drink)
- Online Reservation: NA
- Website: Cat Café Mocha
Cat Café Mocha, nestled in the vibrant heart of Harajuku is a haven for cat lovers and those seeking a moment of peace and comfort in the city’s bustling environment. This unique café offers visitors the chance to relax and play with a variety of friendly felines, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
The concept of Cat Café Mocha stems from the growing popularity of animal cafés in Japan, where space and pet ownership restrictions in urban areas have led to innovative solutions for animal lovers. Since its establishment, Cat Café Mocha has set itself apart with its stylish interior, reminiscent of a cozy living room, and its commitment to the well-being of its resident cats.
Attractions at Cat Café Mocha go beyond the simple joy of interacting with cats. The café is designed to offer a tranquil escape from the outside world, with comfortable seating areas, large windows that let in natural light, and shelves lined with books and cat toys. Guests can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while watching the cats play, nap, and perch on the various cat trees and platforms scattered throughout the space.
To fully enjoy Cat Café Mocha – Harajuku, visitors should come prepared to embrace the calm and soothing atmosphere. Quiet conversations, the gentle purring of cats, and the occasional playful meow create a serene soundscape. It’s recommended to visit during off-peak hours for a more intimate experience with the cats.
Cat Café Mocha is not just a place to see cats; it’s an experience that blends the love of animals with the need for a peaceful retreat, offering a unique and heartwarming escape in the heart of Tokyo.
Owl Nest Café – Ueno
- Address: Ueno 4-5-11 Yasutomi Building 3F, Taitō, Tokyo
- Hours: 2:00 pm–7:00 pm, 1:00 pm–7:00 pm (Saturday-Sunday)
- Closed Day: NA
- Fee: ￥1,650
- Online Reservation: NA
- Website: Owl Nest Café
Owl Nest Café, situated in the culturally rich district of Ueno, offers a distinctive and enchanting experience for visitors seeking to connect with nature in an urban setting. This unique café allows guests to interact closely with a variety of owls, making it a standout destination for animal enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
The inception of Owl Nest Café is rooted in Japan’s growing trend of themed animal cafés, designed to offer city dwellers and tourists alike the opportunity to interact with animals they might not otherwise encounter. Unlike typical pet cafés, Owl Nest Café focuses on these majestic birds, providing a serene environment where guests can learn about and observe owls up close.
The café’s attractions include the chance to see different species of owls, ranging from tiny, fluffy individuals to larger, more imposing birds. Each owl has its own personality and background, and knowledgeable staff are on hand to share fascinating insights about their habits and how to interact with them respectfully. The interior of the café is designed to mimic a natural habitat, with perches and hideaways that allow the owls to feel at ease.
To fully enjoy the Owl Nest Café – Ueno, visitors are encouraged to approach the experience with a sense of wonder and respect for the owls’ well-being. The café offers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere, punctuated by the soft hooting of owls and the gentle murmur of guests. Photography is often allowed, but without flash, to ensure the birds are not startled.
Owl Nest Café stands as a testament to the fascinating world of owls, offering an immersive and educational experience that highlights the beauty and diversity of these creatures in the heart of Tokyo.
mipig Cafe – Harajuku and Meguro
- Address: 4 Chome-11-3 Meguro, Meguro City, Tokyo (Meguro)
- Hours: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Closed Day: NA
- Fee: ￥1,100
- Online Reservation: Available
- Website: mipig Cafe
Mipig Cafe, with its charming locations in Harajuku and Meguro, presents a heartwarming and whimsical experience that captivates visitors with its tiny, adorable residents: micro pigs. As one of the first of its kind in Japan, mipig Cafe emerged from the desire to introduce the joy and therapeutic presence of these miniature pigs to the urban public, creating a unique space where people can interact with these intelligent and affectionate animals.
The history of mipig Cafe is a story of innovation and animal welfare. Inspired by the concept of micro pigs as companions and the therapeutic benefits of human-animal interactions, the founders of mipig Cafe sought to create a cozy, welcoming environment where visitors could learn about and spend time with these special animals. Since its opening, the cafe has become a sanctuary not just for the pigs but also for city dwellers seeking a slice of tranquility and happiness.
Attractions at mipig Cafe extend beyond the novelty of its miniature pigs. The cafes are designed with a keen eye for detail, offering a comfortable and stylish setting that encourages relaxation and interaction. Visitors can cuddle with the pigs, watch them play, or simply enjoy their company while sipping on a cup of coffee or tea.
To fully enjoy mipig Cafe, guests are encouraged to book in advance due to its popularity. Inside, the sound of delighted whispers, gentle oinks, and the soft rustling of pigs exploring their surroundings create a unique and soothing atmosphere. This experience offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, providing a memorable encounter that highlights the charm and intelligence of these tiny creatures.
Mipig Cafe stands as a testament to the joy that animals bring into our lives, offering an unforgettable experience that combines the wonder of nature with the heart of Tokyo’s innovative cafe culture.
Tokyo Snake Center – Shibuya
- Address: 6-5-6 Jingumae | Sampo Sogo Bldg 8F, Shibuya 150-0001, Tokyo
- Hours: 11:00 – 8:00 pm.
- Closed Day: Tuesday
- Fee: ￥1,650 (including entrance with one drink)
- Online Reservation: Available
- Website: Tokyo Snake Center
Tokyo Snake Center, located in the bustling district of Shibuya, offers one of the most unique café experiences in Tokyo, catering to those intrigued by the slithering world of snakes. As Japan’s first snake café, this establishment has created a niche for reptile enthusiasts and curious visitors, providing a rare opportunity to interact with a variety of snake species in a safe and controlled environment.
Since its opening, Tokyo Snake Center has aimed to demystify snakes, often misunderstood creatures, by offering an up-close experience that educates guests about their behaviors, care, and conservation. The café houses a diverse collection of snakes, from the common corn snake to the exotic ball python, all well-cared for by knowledgeable staff.
The main attraction of Tokyo Snake Center is, undoubtedly, the chance to spend time with these fascinating reptiles. Guests can choose a snake to accompany them at their table, allowing for a personal interaction under the guidance of the café’s staff. In addition to enjoying a beverage or light snack, visitors can learn about each snake’s characteristics, habitat, and dietary preferences.
To fully enjoy the Tokyo Snake Center, visitors are encouraged to approach with an open mind and respect for the animals. The café offers a calm and serene atmosphere, a stark contrast to the vibrant energy of Shibuya outside. The gentle rustling of snakes exploring their enclosures and the quiet conversations between guests and staff create a surprisingly peaceful ambiance.
Tokyo Snake Center stands as a testament to Tokyo’s eclectic café culture, offering an educational and unique experience that challenges perceptions and promotes understanding of these elegant creatures.
Temari no Ouchi – Kichijoji
- Address: 3F, 2–13–14 Kichijoji Honcho, Musashino-city, Tokyo
- Hours: 12:00 am – 8:00 pm, 11:00 am – 8:00 pm (Saturday-Sunday)
- Closed Day: NA
- Fee: ￥1,400 (￥1,800 on weekends and holidays)
- Online Reservation: NA
- Website: Temari no Ouchi
Temari no Ouchi, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Kichijoji, is a whimsical cat café that feels like stepping into a storybook. With its Ghibli-inspired interior, this magical place offers a fairy tale escape where visitors can enjoy the company of cats in a fantastical setting. Since its opening, Temari no Ouchi has become a beloved sanctuary for cat lovers and those seeking a moment of peace and enchantment in the bustling city.
The history of Temari no Ouchi reflects a growing trend in Tokyo’s café culture, where the love for cats and the desire for a relaxing retreat converge. It stands out with its unique approach to design and ambiance, creating an immersive experience that captures the imagination and provides a comfortable space for both cats and humans.
The main attraction of Temari no Ouchi is undoubtedly the cats themselves, which roam freely in the elaborately decorated space. Visitors can interact with a variety of breeds, each with its own personality, in settings that range from cozy nooks to airy, sunlit spaces filled with cushions and climbing structures.
To fully enjoy Temari no Ouchi, guests are encouraged to unwind and adopt the laid-back pace of its feline inhabitants. Sipping on a cup of coffee or tea while watching the cats play or settle down for a nap offers a serene and joyful experience. The soft purring, gentle meows, and the quiet ambiance of the café create a soothing background noise, enhancing the sense of tranquility and wonder.
Temari no Ouchi stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation of Tokyo’s café scene, offering an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the typical cat café, inviting visitors into a magical world where cats are the enchanting hosts.
Owlspark Owlscafe – Ikebukuro
- Address: 1-29-3 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032, Japan
- Hours: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm (11:00 am – 6:40 pm)
- Closed Day: NA
- Fee: 1,000 yen
- Online Reservation: NA
- Website: Asakusa Mameshiba Cafe
Mame Shiba Inu Café in Asakusa, provides a heartwarming experience for dog lovers and those curious about Japan’s smaller version of the Shiba Inu breed. Situated in the historic district of Asakusa, known for its traditional atmosphere and iconic Senso-ji Temple, this café offers a unique blend of modern Japanese culture with the timeless charm of one of the country’s beloved dog breeds.
Since its establishment, the Mame Shiba Inu Café has been dedicated to introducing the diminutive and adorable Mame Shiba Inu to the public. Unlike their slightly larger Shiba Inu counterparts, Mame Shiba Inus are known for their compact size, making them perfect companions for café visitors. The café’s mission extends beyond providing a cute experience; it also aims to educate guests on responsible pet ownership and the characteristics of this special breed.
Attractions at the Mame Shiba Inu Café include the opportunity to interact closely with these friendly dogs. Visitors can play, cuddle, and take photos with the Mame Shiba Inus, all within a clean, comfortable, and safe environment designed for both the animals and guests.
To fully enjoy the Mame Shiba Inu Café, it’s recommended to visit during less busy hours for a more intimate experience with the dogs. The sounds of the Mame Shiba Inus’ playful barks and the joyful laughter of guests create a lively yet soothing atmosphere. It’s a place where the stresses of daily life can be momentarily forgotten, replaced by the simple joy of connecting with these charming dogs.
Mame Shiba Inu Café stands as a unique cultural experience in Tokyo, offering a memorable and delightful escape into the world of Japan’s smaller, equally enchanting version of the Shiba Inu.
Capyneko Cafe – Kichijoji
- Address: 2F PLATANO, 1-5-10 Kichijoji-Minami-cho, Musashino-shi, Tokyo
- Hours: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Closed Day: NA
- Fee: 2,800 yen
- Online Reservation: Available
- Website: Capyneko Cafe, Kichijoji
Capyneko Cafe in Kichijoji, offers an intriguing and delightful blend of experiences for animal lovers, featuring an uncommon duo of pets: capybaras and cats. This unique café, situated in one of Tokyo’s most charming neighborhoods, has quickly become a favorite spot for those seeking to interact with these gentle animals in a cozy and welcoming setting.
The concept of Capyneko Cafe emerged from the desire to introduce the serene and friendly nature of capybaras, the world’s largest rodents, to the urban public, alongside the independent and playful spirits of cats. This innovative combination has not only captivated visitors but also highlighted the café’s commitment to providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life.
Attractions at Capyneko Cafe include the opportunity to watch capybaras and cats coexist harmoniously, offering guests a rare chance to observe the interactions between these two species. The café environment is carefully designed to ensure the comfort and well-being of the animals, with ample space for them to roam, play, and rest. Visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while relaxing with the animals, making it a perfect place to unwind.
To fully enjoy Capyneko Cafe, visitors are encouraged to come with a gentle and calm demeanor, respecting the animals’ space and pace. The soft sounds of the capybaras’ movements in the water, combined with the purring of contented cats, create a tranquil atmosphere that embodies the café’s tranquil essence.
Capyneko Cafe stands out as a testament to Tokyo’s innovative café culture, offering an unforgettable experience that soothes the soul and brings joy through the simple pleasure of animal companionship.
Each of these cafes provides a unique experience, allowing visitors to interact with animals they may not typically have the chance to. Whether you’re an animal lover or just looking for a unique experience in Tokyo, these cafes offer a memorable and heartwarming visit. Remember to check their official websites for the most current information on hours and admission fees before planning your visit.
