Japan has a multitude of cafés that attract locals and tourists alike. These cafes let you cozy up with cats, dogs, owls, and even reptiles. But do you know that there’s a capybara café you can visit in Tokyo? A relatively new spot (it opened in 2023), Café Capyba offers first-hand experience with adorable capybaras. Read on to learn more about this unique place.
As a self-confessed “café hunter”, I’m always on the lookout for new places to visit. I came across this café while scrolling through my Instagram and my cute aggression just kicked in. I knew that I should visit soon.
I first learned about capybaras through an anime character called Kapibara-san. As I did my research, I discovered that they are originally from South America and are considered the largest rodents in the world. Interestingly, they are also one of the friendliest and most peaceful animals on Earth. A quick search online will reveal pictures of them socializing with cats, monkeys, and birds. They have barrel-shaped bodies that weigh 35 to 70 kilograms and webbed toes that help them swim efficiently.
Last month, I invited my friend to visit Café Capyba and agreed to meet at Matsudo Station. We transferred at Kita-senju Station and took the Tobu Skytree Line. It took us 25 minutes to reach Hikifune, the closest station to the café. We walked for about 5 minutes, going past some stores and houses. We discovered that the café is located in a quaint and unassuming neighborhood. I was quite surprised that it’s situated on a street corner, hidden from potential customers. When we reached the place, a sign on the door said “We’re fully-booked today.” Fortunately, we were able to make a reservation the day before. Our eyes were filled with excitement as we watched two capybaras relax and munch some pellets. We later learned that their names are Kohaku and Pisuke.
We were asked to go upstairs and wait for a while. We read a list of rules and checked the menu items. There were hot and iced drinks (americano, café latte, café mocha, black tea, apple juice, and ginger ale) to choose from. We then placed our belongings in a locker, took out our phones, and went downstairs. More customers came in. Before we knew it, 10 of us were sitting on the sofas, staring at the furry creatures. At first, everyone was hesitant to touch them. However, after a couple of minutes they started jumping on the sofas, seemingly asking to be petted. It was amusing to watch their stocky bodies bounce when they jump. The staff started giving out blankets to put on our laps and sliced carrots to feed the capybaras. Visitors can feed the capybaras for an additional fee of Y330.
Each visitor was given a chance to touch and take selfies with the animals. When it was our turn, the staff took a ton of pictures—much to my delight. While I was stroking one of the capybaras, I noticed that its hair was coarse—almost broom-like in texture. I initially thought they have soft fur. After consuming their treats, one unsatisfied capybara proceeded to chomp hay in another enclosure. Meanwhile, my friend and I resolved to sipping our ginger ale to quench our thirst.
After 30 minutes, it was time to leave. We paid Y1,250 for the admission fee, Y550 for the drink, and Y330 for the carrots. By the entrance, there was a corner for souvenirs such as plushies and mugs that visitors can purchase and take home.
Check out their official website in English here: HOME (English) – cafe capyba (capybara cafe in TOKYO) (cspace.co.jp)
Since we finished early (our reservation was from 10:00 am – 10:30 am), we headed to Setagaya-daita Station to visit Shirohige’s Cream Puff Shop. This shop has been attracting Studio Ghibli fans around the world for its Totoro-inspired pastries.
I had been eyeing to visit this place for the longest time, so I was really glad that I finally did. The street leading to the confectionary shop slash café was dotted with trees and residential houses. When we reached the shop, the first thing that caught my eye was its signage—three Totoros carved on a huge block of wood. The building, which reminded me of a Western brick house, was also remarkably charming.
The café wasn’t packed that day, so we just waited for a couple of minutes. Eventually, our names were called and we were led to our table on the second floor. The staff asked us to scan the QR code to make an order. The shop offers a variety of cream puff flavors including custard, chocolate, matcha, strawberry, peach, mango, and chestnut. Take note that some of these flavors are only available during a specific season or month.
I ordered the cream puff with chocolate cream filling, while my friend picked the one with custard cream. The cream puff was truly delectable and not overly sweet. Its filling was smooth and velvety.
I’m thinking of visiting again (probably in spring) and buying a takeout.
Check out their official website in English here: Whitebeard’s cream puff workshop (shiro-hige.net)
Overall, we enjoyed both places and it was truly a day well spent. If you’re seeking for a rare and unique experience, you should definitely visit Café Capyba. And if you’re craving for something sweet, then grab a bite at Shirohige’s Cream Puff Shop. I hope you include these places in your next café adventure.
Stay tuned to my next cafe adventure in Tokyo!
