Are you hoping to try one of Japan’s incredible animal cafés? Maybe you’re a snake lover, or perhaps you just want to step out of your comfort zone and try something thrilling? Look no further! I have a recommendation that will leave your skin crawling—in the best way possible.
Compared to dog cafés, cat cafés, and even hedgehog cafés, a reptile café might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But let me give you 100 reasons (okay, maybe just a few) why you should add this to your Kansai bucket list.
My adventure took place in Namba, at ROCKSTAR Café, which is located just 7 to 11 minutes from Namba Station. I’ve visited twice—once after telling my friend how much I wanted to go to a snake café, and the second time as a tour guide for a friend visiting from Taiwan.
If you love fun adventures, check out these other experiences I’ve written about:
ROCKSTAR Café is hands-down one of my favorite animal cafés in Japan, and here’s why:
My friend called ahead to make a reservation, but both times I visited (around 11 AM, right at opening), there weren’t many people. If you plan to go early in the morning, you may not need to book in advance. However, if you’re visiting during peak hours or with a group, a reservation is a good idea.
Upon arrival, you’ll check in at the front desk. If you have a reservation, simply give your name, and they’ll direct you to your seat. The staff will then go over some essential guidelines, such as the one-drink order system, how to handle the animals, and proper etiquette for interacting with the reptiles.
MANY tourists and foreigners come here so the guide is in English and (I believe) the staff is used to working with foreigners. So if you don’t speak Japanese, it’s okay! Everyone is super friendly and excited to see you!
One of the things I love about this café is the drink selection! They offer a variety of hot and cold beverages and even some food options. I always opt for a warm drink—even when I visited in the summer. A little heads-up: they serve drinks in tin cans, which can keep them hot for hours. So be careful not to burn your tongue! 😅
((I recommend the hot cocoa! The whipped cream and chocolate sauce on top are so delicious!))
Now for the best part—spending time with the reptiles!
The very first time I visited, I fell in love with one particular snake. I ended up spending four hours with him, and at one point, he even fell asleep in my arms. It was such a cozy and unexpectedly relaxing experience that I dozed off as well!
The second time I visited, my favorite snake was much more active, slithering all over the place. I kept playfully telling him to behave. I feel like I became a snake mom through this. One day I would love to have one haha.
Unlike me, my friends preferred to switch between different animals. You have the option to stick with one reptile the entire time or swap them out as often as you like. Either way, you’re in for an unforgettable experience!
While I highly recommend ROCKSTAR Café, Osaka is home to several other fantastic animal cafés. If you want to continue your animal adventure, check out these spots:
I 10/10 recommend visiting ROCKSTAR Café. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the experience is unlike anything else. Whether you’re a reptile enthusiast or just looking for a unique activity in Osaka, this is definitely a must-try!
Are you brave enough to hang out with a snake? I really hope that you can enjoy your time if you go! I know I did haha.
Ssssssee you in the next adventure! 🐍
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