Kuturoginoi (meaning "House of Comfort") operates as a non-profit rescue cat cafe in the small town of Mashike, Hokkaido, run by the Mashike Rinyukai Association. This facility uniquely combines multiple missions: serving as a cafe where visitors interact with rescued cats, operating as a supported employment workplace (B-type employment support facility), providing pet boarding, and offering cat-related consulting services. The cafe charges only 500 yen for unlimited time (free for children under 3), with operational hours limited to Mondays and Thursdays 12:00-16:00, plus twice-monthly evening sessions from 17:00-20:00. This modest pricing structure reflects the organization's non-profit mission and commitment to accessibility.
The cats at Kuturoginoi are primarily rescue animals who have recovered from life on the streets or medical conditions, now integrating into a peaceful shared living space. Reviews emphasize that the cats are remarkably relaxed and well-cared-for, with visitors noting the animals spend time across two floors depending on social dynamics and individual needs. The facility maintains exceptional cleanliness while creating a home-like atmosphere where cats and humans coexist peacefully. Staff members are described as thoughtful and knowledgeable, contributing to the welcoming environment. Light refreshments including drinks, food, and desserts are available on-site.
Beyond the cafe, Kuturoginoi serves critical animal welfare functions in the region. The organization coordinates TNR (trap-neuter-return) programs for community cats, utilizes free spay/neuter vouchers from the Japan Animal Fund, and operates a permanent care program (eien yozukai) for cats requiring long-term support. The facility offers overnight accommodation (Friday-Sunday only) at 5,000 yen per person or 30,000 yen for groups up to 7, allowing visitors to experience extended time with rescue cats while supporting the organization's mission. Employment support services for individuals with disabilities working with cats create unique opportunities for community members to engage in meaningful work. The organization explicitly prioritizes eliminating euthanasia for cats in the region, making each visitor interaction a contribution to broader animal welfare efforts.