Best Shiba Inu Cafes in Japan – Kawaii and Coffee!

Phew, this website is a labor of love and largely a one-woman show so unless indicated, all articles written by J.Tsukamoto

Japan is more than the Land of the Rising Sun; it’s the land of Shiba Inu cafes! 

In more recent years, the concept of animal cafes, where you can chill and sip tea with your favorite furry animal, has grown not only in Japan but worldwide. 

Cat cafes, hedgehog cafes, rabbit cafes, and even owl cafes are everywhere you look in Japan.

But as Shiba Inu peeps, you're likely only interested in the Shiba Inu-themed cafes.

There are Shiba Inu cafes throughout Japan, many existing in the popular districts of Tokyo, including Harajuku, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Akihabara.

If you plan on visiting  Japan some time soon for the awesome sights and  great shopping - then you are going to want to keep these adorable Shiba Inu destinations in your itinerary. 

What Exactly Are Shiba Inu Cafes in Japan?

Shiba Inu cafes, also known as Mameshiba cafes, are a kind of animal cafe.

The concept behind animal cafes is to provide a relaxing and enjoyable environment for patrons to spend time with animals.

It can be a therapeutic experience for animal lovers who may not have pets of their own or who want to spend time with animals they wouldn't typically encounter. 

Shiba Inu Cafes are establishments that features Shiba Inu specifically.

In the cafe, the dogs are usually freely walking around or within some kind of “play” area. You are allowed to interact with the dogs and play with them during your time there.

Some cafes will offer food and drink, but most will only allow a beverage.

In Japan, animal cafes are generally safe and well-maintained. Because the business has to follow strict guidelines to maintain the health and happiness of the animals, there is trained staff on standby (and to have the dogs sometimes do tricks).

How Much Does It Cost to Go to a Shiba Inu or Mameshiba Cafe?

Shiba Inu cafes are a wonderful way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city streets for a reasonable price.

Most cafes have an admission fee that includes a single drink. If you want to buy a second drink, that comes at an additional price. 

Typically, the admission fee ranges between \800-1,200 for an adult and \600-900 for a child younger than 12.

Some cafes allow children under 3 years old to enter for free. 

What to Expect at a Shiba Inu Cafe

A trip to the Shiba Inu cafe is a perfect pit stop for Shiba Inu enthusiasts as well as dog lovers when touring Japan. 

Although there are only a handful of locations right now, you will find that there are plenty of animal cafes wherever you go.

If you plan on stopping by one of these locations, here's what you should expect.

Upon arrival at the cafe, you will be greeted by staff members who will lead you into the building. 

There will be a short orientation, usually a video, that explains what you can and cannot do in the cafe.

For example, you are not allowed to take flash photos inside of the cafe, but you can take a nap with a pup on your lap! 

Many of the cafes will have tatami floors, meaning you will need to take off your shoes. After a trip to the drink bar—which is usually a vending machine—you can go sit down on the mats and interact with the dogs. 

Each ticket is only for 30 minutes, and you usually cannot make reservations for the Owl and Cat Forest cafes.

Independent ones have their own rules. That said, since you generally can’t make reservations, it’s recommended that you get there early or at a time when fewer people will be there, such as the middle of the work day.

Weekends are usually the most packed and will have a line. But is it worth it? Of course!

Shiba Inu Cafes in Tokyo

1. Asakusa Mameshiba Cafe (Owl and Cat Forest Chain)

The Mameshiba Cafes of Owl and Cat Forest are part of an immense chain of highly rated animal cafes throughout Japan. You can find Mameshiba Cafes in Asakusa, Shinjuku, and beyond. 

2. Harajuku Mameshiba Cafe (Owl and Cat Forest Chain)

Here is another location for the Mameshiba Cafe in Harajuku. You will have to look up from Takeshita-dori and search for a window decorated with a massive Shiba Inu.

3. Ueno Azukishiba no Sato

This Shiba Inu cafe is scheduled to open anew after moving on October 6, 2023 at 11:00AM. Located in Ueno, close to Akihabara and other popular Tokyo destinations, this small cafe lets you play with pups and have a drink and snack. 

Shiba Inu Cafes in Kanagawa

4. Kamakura Mameshiba Cafe

Yes, this is another shop run by Owl and Cat Forest! The Mameshiba Cafe of Kamakura is located a short walk from the JR Kamakura station. This is a wonderful location, because Kamakura is full of history, temples, and even a beautiful beach in the summertime. Next time you are wandering around this ancient location, stop into the cafe and pet some puppies. 

Shiba Inu Cafes in Osaka

5. Osaka Mameshiba Cafe

Some of the reviews state that the staff and dogs are a bit standoffish, but others say that it depends on when you go. Morning is the best time if you want the best experience. Only a small number of people can enter at a time. 

Shiba Inu Cafes in Kyoto

6. Cafe Ryoma

Although there are some mixed reviews about Cafe Ryoma, the general consensus is that you pay \880 for 30 minutes and get to play with very friendly dogs. The inside of the store is relatively small, but there are definitely plenty of pups to pet. The staff has also trained the dogs to do tricks. 

7. Kyoto Mameshiba Cafe

Another location of the Owl and Cat Forest chain. This one, like the rest, sells merchandise and features Shiba Inu wearing handkerchiefs around their neck. Also in the store are owls and Bengal cats. 

Shiba Inu Cafes in Hiroshima

8. Mameshiba Cafe Konatsu

People come to this Mameshiba Cafe not only for the adorable dogs in residence but for the delicious food. According to reviews, a set meal is around \500, which is an absolute steal. They also serve various desserts. Presently, there is no website or Instagram available.

Shiba Inu Cafes in Okayama

9. Okayama Azukishiba no Sato

Here is another brand of Azukishiba no Sato Shiba Inu cafe. Located in Okayama, a short walk from the JR station, this is a great little cafe. It is slightly out of the way, but you do get to play with four Shibes in a large room. You will need to reserve a time in advance by calling 0867-37-4488 or DMing the shop on Twitter/X (@okayamaAzukiinu). 

Final Thoughts on Shiba Inu Cafes in Japan

When visiting Japan, Shiba Inu cafes stand out as a unique and heartwarming experience for Shiba enthusiasts. 

Visiting a Shiba Inu cafe in Japan is not just an outing; it's a memorable experience filled with wagging tails and heartwarming moments.

So, when you find yourself wandering the streets of Japan, take a break from the usual tourist spots and make a beeline for one of these adorable cafes.

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