Animal cafes have been a trend for some time now in Japan. Tokyo in particular is home to a number of cat cafes, and others such as bunny, and bird cafes, have sprung up in recent years. This has a lot to do with the limited space in the city. In Tokyo, many people live in apartments or places similar to condominiums. In these types of living quarters, pets are very often not allowed. However, there are still plenty of people who wish to enjoy the company of animals, even if they cannot keep one in their own home. For such people, an animal cafe provides them with the opportunity to spend time with animals in an easy and convenient manner.

The following is a guide to some of the top animal cafes in Tokyo. Whether you want to cuddle a bunny, play with some cats, or hold some birds, you will surely find an animal cafe for you!

HUTCH ASAKUSA is a rabbit cafe located in one of Tokyo’s prime tourist destinations. This so-called “bunny theme park” features over two dozen rabbits of various breeds, colors, and sizes, from which visitors can choose to cuddle on one of five fun floors! Depending on the plan you choose, you can even opt to spend some quality time on the rooftop, letting the bunny stroll and nibble the herb garden. You also have the chance to get a special photo taken together with your favorite bunny, set against the Asakusa skyline!

Stepping into Owl no Mori (Forest of Owls) is like entering a magical jungle! This unique owl cafe is home to 30 owls of 17 different breeds, as well as a few other small animals. See majestic owls fly around the cafe, or hold one, with guidance from the staff. Unlike a typical cafe where you are seated at a table, visitors can walk around freely, viewing the birds at their own pace. However, there is a small sit-down area where coffee, juice, and other soft drinks can be purchased via vending machine.

Enter this cafe and you'll immediately receive a lively welcome from roughly 30 friendly cats! Inside, you'll be treated to a scenic panoramic view of the streets of Shibuya. Cat Cafe MoCHA is not only stylish, but also considerate, allowing the cats to play freely as they wish. This may just be the most elegant cat cafe in Japan!

This cafe located in famous sightseeing spot, Asakusa, has about 100 birds in total, including owls, parakeets and falcons. All the birds have grown up with a lot of love by humans since they were babies, so they are very friendly. Take a visit and watch their charming antics!

Ra.a.g.f., which stands for “rabbit and grow fat,” usually has about 20 rabbits for you to enjoy. You can both pet and feed snacks to them. Every bunny has an unique personality, so you are likely to find your own favorite. A hungry rabbit may even jump onto your lap! Soft drinks are available to purchase, so you can fully relax and enjoy playing with the bunnies!

Sakuragaoka Cafe is a popular and stylish eatery with two goats that hang out on the balcony. With extensive drink and food menus, the cafe is always busy. Unlike some of the other animal cafes on the list, the focus is more on the dishes served than the animals themselves. However, customers with seats facing the hut can relax and enjoy a view of the goats.

Kingyozaka was established by a goldfish wholesaler with about 350 years' history. You can enjoy delicious tea and meals while looking at goldfish swimming elegantly. (Or an alcoholic beverage and a cigar if you so desire!) They sell goldfish in the tank outside the cafe as well as goldfish-motif goods. You can also try goldfish scooping if you’d like to catch your own!

Kotori Café translates to “little bird cafe,” and that is just what you’ll find there! Lorikeets, cockatoos, finches, canaries, and other feathery friends are in the cafe. You can interact with the birds, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee and one of their tasty and “kawaii” desserts. There are also plenty of birdie-themed souvenirs for visitors to buy as a keepsake to take home.