Why Cat Cafes Are a Huge Thing in Japan

Cat cafes have emerged as a wonderful novelty, and specifically in Japan, they are seen as a great way to spend time with cats while enjoying your leisure time. If you love cats but are not able to adopt due to financial reasons or the legal requirements of your apartment, then you should definitely visit one that’s nearest to you. Let’s talk about how cat cafes grew in popularity, what you should know when visiting one, and a list of popular cat cafes that may be to your liking. Who knows, you might end up adopting a new furry friend after reading this article!

History

The idea of cat cafes began in Taiwan; the first cafe that adopted this concept was called ‘Cat Flower Garden,’ which opened in Taipei in 1998. The popularity eventually reached Japan, and the first feline café, “Neko no Jikan,” was established in Osaka in 2004. A growing interest in cats was seen in Japan, and the increase of people living alone in apartments contributed to the quick expansion of such businesses that ultimately became known as cat cafes. Today, many cat cafes are located in Japan, and all of them are very unique in terms of style, décor, and services they provide.

Cat cafes serve a lot of purposes, ranging from just a place to relax to a place to get a sense of companionship from cats without being an actual owner. The popularity of cat cafes also factors in the stressful work culture in Japan, which results in long working hours and inadequate space at home to accommodate pets. Cat cafes are a perfect answer for these types of people, who can briefly decompress in a calm place while enjoying the company of affectionate cats.

Rules to Follow in the Cafe

Just like with all other kitty businesses, there are some guidelines every cat cafe has to follow for the sake of the cats and customers’ comfort and safety. Let us take a look at some of the most common rules you may encounter upon visiting cat cafes.

• No Flash Photography:

Flash is shocking and distressing to the cats; therefore, it is better to take photographs without it. There are also some cafes that kindly ask not to take too many pictures at one time, as here, in stores and other public areas, photography is often appropriately distracting.

• Do Not Disturb Sleeping Cats:

Remember, cats require their beauty sleep; therefore, do not wake them up or interfere with them as they sleep. Another essential aspect is the fact that the cats, like any other living beings, require their rest to guarantee their good health and happiness.

• Gentle Handling:

When dealing with the cats, one should be very gentle and should not make sharp moves that will make the cats run away. It also ensures a positive experience for both the cats and the visitors.

• Sanitize Hands:

In particular, before and after communicating with the cats, people wash their hands to prevent possible infections. Such a practice limits the transmission of germs and ensures that the cats are healthy at all times.

• Follow Staff Instructions:

Social distancing is possible in all cafes and may have certain characteristics unique to each cafe. It is always advisable to adhere to the guidelines given by the staff. Employees know how the cats act and which behaviors are appropriate to expect from them.

These rules are set in place to ensure that the cats are not stressed while making sure that all visitors are comfortable and the cats do not feel threatened.

Famous Cat Cafes in Japan

1. Nekorobi (Tokyo)

Nekorobi is situated in one of Japan’s most populated cities, Ikebukuro, and stands out in a clean environment. The cafe has been mentioned to have cats that are well taken care of and friendly personnel. Apart from the drinks and food, the cafe has kitties that are friendly and can be adopted during the evening and afternoon.

– Price Range: ¥1,100 per hour on weekdays and ¥1,300 on weekends and public holidays.

– Food: Commercial food and beverages such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks for the clients.

– Address: 1-28-1 Higashi-Ikebukuro District Toshima-ku Tokyo

– Website

2. Cat Cafe Mocha (Tokyo)

Having relatively recently opened its doors, Cat Cafe Mocha has already gained fame thanks to the elegant interior and extraordinary decor – you absolutely have to take pictures for the aesthetic here alone, other than the cats of course. Visitors can come and witness the elegantly designed cafe while at the same time engaging with friendly cats. They also provide a list of other products to accompany drinks and snacks, resulting in a total package of relaxation surrounded by the company of cute and loveable cats just waiting to be petted.

– Price Range: ¥200 for 10 minutes, but a day pass is ¥2,400.

– Food: Coffee, tea, soft drinks, and biscuits, sandwiches, cake.

– Address: Shibuya and Harajuku

– Website

3. Neko Cafe Temari no Ouchi (Tokyo)

This adorable cat house is modeled like a forest from a fairy-tale to make people happy while they are spending time with their cats. Hence, if you are seeking a different feeling, full of magic, Temari no Ouchi is just the right place for you. The cafe has an enchanting interior design and also has cats that are open to finding their forever homes.

– Price Range: ¥1,200 per hour and ¥1,100 for any subsequent hours.

– Food: Chai, tea, coffee, and sweets.

– Address: 2-13-14 Kichijoji Honcho Musashino Tokyo

– Website

4. Neko Cafe Leon (Yokohama)

Neko Cafe Leon is a cat-centric cafe that has received a lot of popularity due to the breed of cats that they have. The majority of the cats have unusual pedigrees, temperaments, and ages that guarantee you a refreshing experience every time you visit. The atmosphere of the cafe is rather homely and welcoming as cats are allowed to freely roam the establishment.

– Price Range: ¥1,000 per hour.

– Food: Pop and snacks.

– Address: Yokohama, Kanagawa 1-13-11 Yoshidamachi, Naka-ku

– Website

Adoption Process

Cat cafes also serve other purposes, such as temporarily keeping cats in a comfortable environment with the possibility of them getting adopted by their new owners. If you end up falling in love with one of those furry, purring creatures, then take a look at the adoption process to see if you are able to.

The adoption process typically involves several steps:

1. Initial Visit: Go to the cafe and socialize with the cats as often as you can until you find one that steals your heart. Most people have specific preferences on which cat they would like to have as a companion or which cat they feel would best suit their home by assessing the cats’ temperaments, so this is a necessary step.

2. Application: Complete an “Adoption form” which states the number of people in your household, if you own/rent the house or apartment, if pets are allowed, if you have other pets, and more. The application form helps the cafe staff evaluate whether you are suitable enough as a prospective cat owner based on your living conditions.

3. Interview: Schedule a meeting with the cafe’s employees to discuss the terms of the adoption and to reassure the staff that the cat will be comfortable with you. It is also a good opportunity to ask more questions about the cat’s history, health, personality, and vet records.

4. Home Visit: Most cafes will need to see where they are placing the cat, so they might need to make a home visit to ensure your environment is suitable for them. This is an essential step for most cat café staff owners in order to know if you are the perfect candidate for the adoption.

5. Adoption Fee: Pay a non-refundable adoption fee, which often includes the costs of vaccination, spaying or neutering, and other initial charges. The fee goes a long way in catering for the cat’s needs, including feeding, health checks, and grooming, among others, and making it ready for a new home.

6. Trial Period: Some cafes give the cat a week’s trial period to check if the cat adapts well before the process is fully decided. This period helps the cat become more familiar with the new home as well as the new owner in case the adoption is permanent.

Cat cafes offer a delightful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing a unique opportunity to relax and bond with furry friends. Whether you’re looking to adopt or simply enjoy some quality time with cats, these cafes are a haven for all cat enthusiasts. So, the next time you’re in Japan, make sure to visit a cat cafe and experience the joy and tranquility they bring.