6 Best Animal and Pet Cafes in Tokyo

Among the many experiences you can enjoy in Tokyo, one of the more memorable ones is visiting an animal cafe. The popular options are dog and cat cafes, and there are many of them throughout the city. However, there are other animal cafes that are well worth visiting. We’ve prepared a list of unique spots where you should drop by for an unconventional adventure in Tokyo.

Hedgehog Cafe HARRY

Are you looking to play with shy and at times cheeky pets? Then, you should check out Hedgehog Cafe HARRY. Their hedgehogs are of varying colors that they’ve named to correspond with the cafe theme, including Salt and Pepper, Cinnamon and the rare Apricot. Apart from playing with the hedgehogs, there is an option to buy a hedgehog to take home with you.They also offer advice to guide you if you are a first-time pet parent. Hedgehog Cafe HARRY has different locations across Tokyo, with some locations even having other animals, including otters and chinchillas.

Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday: 11am–7pm

Owl Cafe Akiba Fukurou

This award-winning cafe is operated by a couple with an immense love for owls, which they want to share with the world. It is the largest owl cafe in Japan, featuring about 40 owls, some of which are very rare breeds. Located near Akihabara station, this cafe is renowned for prioritizing the owls’ care, so they only allow a limited number of people to prevent the owls from becoming overwhelmed. Owl Cafe Akiba Fukurou is also English-friendly, so you’re guaranteed a full owl cafe experience, regardless of your Japanese ability. As part of the package, visitors can choose two owls to take a picture with to share on their socials and remember this unique experience. Reservations are required and can be made through their website. 

Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday, 12pm–6pm; closed Tuesdays

Capy Neko Cafe Kichijoji

Located just a minute from Kichijoji Station’s south exit, this unique animal cafe offers visitors the chance to meet Tawashi, a charming capybara, along with a group of playful cats. Known for their calming presence, the capybara and feline crew provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Many of the cats here are also seeking forever homes, so if you’re considering adoption, the staff can guide you through the process. This combination of adorable interactions and meaningful connections makes for a truly heartwarming experience.

Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday, 10am–7:50pm

Harajuku Mame-Shiba Cafe

Located along the bustling Takeshita Street in Harajuku, this cozy cafe is a haven for dog lovers, particularly for fans of the Mame Shiba Inu, a petite variation of the beloved Japanese Shiba Inu breed. The cafe’s design, with its tatami mats and traditional low tables, evokes the warmth of a typical Japanese home, creating a unique contrast to the cafe’s lively urban surroundings. Visitors can enjoy an intimate and relaxing experience as they play with these adorable pups in a serene, home-like setting.

Opening Hours: Monday–Friday, 11am–6pm; Saturday–Sunday, 11am–6:40pm

Cafe Kingyozaka

Located in Hongo, Bunkyo Ward, Kingyozaka is known for its expertise in the wholesale trade of goldfish for more than 350 years. The cafe has two main areas: the courtyard where the fish ponds and tanks are located, and the restaurant. There are about 50 different types of goldfish in the courtyard that you can observe and even take home with you. After seeing the goldfish and koi fish, you can enjoy some coffee and a light lunch in the restaurant. Everything in the restaurant is goldfish themed, from the interior decor to the coasters and cutlery.

Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday, 11:30am–9pm; closed Tuesdays

Animal Meeting Room

This particular animal cafe also doubles as a rescue shelter. Animal Meeting Room mainly targets potential adopters, but anyone is welcome to visit and interact with the dogs and cats. Upon arrival, you will be required to fill out a form in Japanese and state your intention to adopt or not. First-time visitors can play with the pets as long as they wish at absolutely no cost. For any future visits, there is a ¥500 fee for 30 minutes.

Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday, 12pm–7pm

If you’re in Tokyo, Osaka or Sasayama and are looking for a way to aid animals in need, check out Animal Refuge Kansai, also known as ARK. This organization has been helping local strays and other unwanted pets find new homes since 1990. Animal lovers can volunteer to help feed and care for the animals at this safe haven. ARK is one of the best animal shelters in Japan that you can visit if you want to help or adopt a new furry friend.