Established in Shinjuku's Okubo neighborhood, Bakeneko Cafe (化猫カフェ) operates under the compelling mission: "Abandoned and rescue cats transform into cherished pets." This dedicated rescue cat cafe combines adoption advocacy with professional animal care, holding official Type 1 animal handler certification and actively accepting cats needing rescue. Located a 2-minute walk from Nishi-Waseda Station (Subway), the cafe functions as both a welcoming visitor space and a functioning rescue shelter, embodying a sustainable model where cafe revenue directly supports rescue operations. With 4 certified animal care specialists on staff, Bakeneko demonstrates serious commitment to feline welfare while educating visitors about Japan's animal shelter crisis.
The cafe houses a diverse roster of rescue cats including Kohada (an energetic Scottish Fold), Nameko (an elegant Siberian), and rescue cats like Osatsu (deeply affectionate) and Dango (spirited yet sweetly needy). Reviewers consistently praised the cafe as superior to other Tokyo establishments: "Clean. It is staffed by cat professionals. They answer every question accurately," and "better than any cat cafe I have visited in Tokyo." Visitors noted the cats' remarkable friendliness—born from patient socialization rather than breed selection—with two cats often sitting on laps. Multiple guests highlighted watching cats interact naturally with each other, creating authentic moments of feline behavior. Staff knowledge impressed visitors most; they explain each cat's personality, history, and adoption status with genuine passion. One reviewer brought specialty kidney care food to support a cat's health, reflecting the cafe's transparent approach to individual cat needs. The environment is meticulously maintained, and the staff's obvious care for each animal creates an atmosphere of trust and authenticity.
Operating hours are 11:00–20:00 daily (last order 19:00), closed Mondays and Wednesdays. Entry fees are structured as: 30 minutes ¥1,000, 1 hour ¥1,500, 2 hours ¥2,400, 3 hours ¥3,000; students receive 20% discount with ID. Elementary school children pay half price; children under 6 are not admitted. Socks are mandatory (available for purchase), and perfume is strictly prohibited due to toxicity risks to cats. Complimentary beverages included with entry; food is available on the terrace (pork negi bowl, ankake fried noodles). Groups of 4+ should reserve by phone (03-6161-2929). The cafe actively supports rescue work through merchandise sales and donation programs (¥500 provides one week of food for a rescue cat). Located 6 minutes from Nishi-Waseda Station, parking is not available.
保護猫
¥1,500
