Among the many experiences you can enjoy in Tokyo, one of the more memorable is visiting pet cafes. Of course, the popular options are dog and cat cafes, and there are many of them dotted around the city. However, there are other animal and pet 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, including the classic 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. They have different locations across Tokyo and some locations have other pets such as otters and chinchillas
Business hours: Differs by location. Refer to the website for more information.
Address: There are various locations. Check out the website for more details.
Falconer's Cafe
As the name suggests, Falconer’s Cafe is owned and run by a falconer who studied the traditional Japanese art of falconry. In this large aviary space, you can observe different birds of prey, including hawks and falcons. Customers also have the option to bring their birds, unlike most pet cafes in Tokyo. This is an excellent opportunity to meet and socialize with other bird lovers in Tokyo. Visitors can enjoy food and drinks as they look at the birds—but touching them is not allowed. Priority to enter the cafe is given to people with prior reservations. Make sure to call or email in advance using the contact information below.
Contact information: falconerscafe@outlook.com, 0422-57-7762
Business hours: 1pm–7pm, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Nearest stations: Kichijoji and Mitaka stations
Address: 1-11-8 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka City
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. The cafe is renowned for prioritizing the owls’ care; therefore, they only allow a limited number of people to ensure the owls are not overwhelmed and can take regular breaks. Owl Cafe Akiba Fukurou is also English-friendly, so you’re guaranteed a full owl cafe experience whether or not you are fluent in Japanese. As part of the package, visitors can choose two owls to hang out with and get a picture to share on their socials. You can only make a reservation on their website.
Business Hours: Weekdays 12pm–6pm
Weekends 12pm–7pm
Nearest station: Akihabara Station
Address: 67 Kanda Neribeicho, Chiyoda-ku
Cafe Kingyozaka
Located in Hongo, Bunkyo Ward, Kingyozaka has been 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 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 also enjoy some coffee and a light lunch in the cafe restaurant. Everything in the restaurant is goldfish themed, from the interior decor to the coasters and cutlery.
Business hours: Weekdays 11:30am–9:30pm
Weekends 12pm–8pm
Nearest station: Hongo Sanchome Station
Address: 5-3-15 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku
Animal Meeting Room
This particular pet cafe also doubles as a rescue shelter. Animal Meeting Room mainly targets potential adopters but everyone 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.
Business hours: 11am–5pm
Nearest station: Nishi-Hachioji Station
Address: 2-7-32 Sandamachi, Hachioji City
Neko Action
Worth adding to this list is Neko Action. It is not a traditional pet cafe because they specialize in selling cat-related merchandise. However, you can still find some cats hanging around in the store, although it is not set up for visitors to pet the cats as most pet cafes are. The cat goods sold include original artworks, figurines, postcards, stationery, and many other items that could be thoughtful souvenirs for a cat lover in your life.
Business Hours: 11am–6pm, closed on Mondays except for holidays
Nearest station: Nippori Station
Address: 3-10-5 Nishinippori, Arakawa-ku
If you’re in Tokyo, Osaka, and Sasayama and are looking for a way to give back to 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 out or adopt a new furry friend.
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