Cat Cafe Nyanko Merry

Opened July 2019 in Hidaka village by Tanaka Sachie following personal inspiration from a rescue cat's devoted care during illness, Nyanko Merry directly addresses Kochi prefecture's urgent problem: 309 kittens euthanized annually. The facility primarily rescues newborn bottle-fed kittens from health offices facing immediate death, carefully raising each cat before adoption placement. Since opening, the cafe has facilitated 135+ adoptions and counting, while the owner simultaneously volunteers as a milk-bottle foster for additional at-risk neonates—demonstrating extraordinary personal commitment to extending feline lives.

The rotating population of 20+ rescue cats includes diverse temperaments from playful kittens to calm adults, creating optimal conditions for potential adopters to test compatibility. Reviewers consistently praised the owner's exceptional kindness—one guest noted she personally drove them to their hotel after learning of train pressure—alongside staff recognition of regulars ("you've come again!"). Multiple visitors highlighted "affectionate cats that climb into laps" despite rescue backgrounds, with the space maintaining "cleanliness despite many cats" through meticulous care. Post-adoption support remains available indefinitely; one adopter reported receiving therapeutic food after their kitten developed digestive issues.

Hours: Thursday/Saturday/Monday 11:30–16:00 (last entry 15:00 weekday, 15:30 Sat/Sun); closed Wednesday/Friday/Sunday. Pricing: 30 min ¥800, 60 min ¥1,200, 90 min ¥1,600, 120 min ¥2,000; support member ¥6,000/11 visits. Treats available. Merchandise with cat profiles; handmade bento, cookies (highly rated). Socks required; youth size available; small children need guardian. Reservations recommended (phone 0889-39-1843 or LINE); 14:00+ becomes crowded, 11:30 recommended for relaxed experience. 6-parking capacity; free. Adoption: visit → interview → trial period → contract. Address: 181-13 Kuzu, Hidaka, Takaoka District, Kochi (〒781-2155). Contact: 0889-39-1843.