Cat Cafe Mikan opened in December 2020 in Takehara, Hiroshima, and has established itself as a specialized facility dedicated to large, gentle cat breeds. The cafe focuses exclusively on Norwegian Forest Cats and Maine Coons, breeds known for their substantial size and calm temperament despite their imposing appearance. The two-floor layout separates the cat interaction space on the first floor from a sea-themed cafe on the second floor, allowing visitors to enjoy fresh crepes and specialty beverages while optionally viewing cats through windows. The facility maintains exceptionally high hygiene standards and the large windows allow guests to photograph their vehicles alongside resident cats—a charming feature that appeals to visitors. The atmosphere balances relaxation with structured animal care, as the spacious cat room with built-in climbing structures accommodates the cats' natural behaviors while providing comfortable surfaces for human visitors.
Pricing is accessible at ¥750 for 30 minutes, ¥1,300 for one hour (both with drinks), and ¥2,000 for unlimited weekday time (with drink bar included). All visits require socks—the cafe sells them for a small fee if needed—and strict rules prohibit cat holding, flash photography, and loud behavior to protect animal welfare. Guests may purchase optional cat treats for ¥100 to encourage interaction, and the staff provides gentle instruction on appropriate handling techniques. The cafe operates 11:00-17:00 daily with last admissions at 17:00, closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Recent operational changes have temporarily restricted entry for children under junior high school age due to repeated rule violations, though the cafe plans to reopen this age group once new guidelines are established.
Reviews consistently praise the cleanliness, professional cat care, and exceptional temperament of the cats—visitors note that despite their large size and aristocratic appearance, the Norwegian Forest Cats and Maine Coons are remarkably affectionate and readily approach guests unprompted. Many cats spontaneously climb onto laps, lick hands, or nuzzle visitors, demonstrating genuine comfort with human interaction. The staff's attentiveness and willingness to teach proper engagement techniques create a welcoming environment even for first-time visitors. The separate cafe space allows group members with different preferences to enjoy their time together, and the quality of crepes and beverages adds culinary value to the experience. The facility's commitment to animal welfare is evident in both the cats' visibly healthy coats and the owner's firm enforcement of behavioral standards to ensure long-term animal wellbeing.
¥1,300
