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In recent years there has been something of a boom in pet cafes across Japan. Starting with cats, these themed cafes have now extended to other creatures, including rabbits, owls, and even goats.
Japanese houses are small, and keeping a pet is difficult for most people. So, whenever a Tokyoite feels the need to get out of their tiny apartment and spend some time playing or simply sitting with a cute four-legged friend, a pet café is the place to head to!
Naturally, tourists have also shown an interest in these cafes. Whether it’s because they miss their pet from home, or perhaps they are just curious about the concept, visiting a pet café has started to creep on to the list of ‘things to do in Japan’.
Being allergic to cats, I decided rabbits were the pet for me, and during my last trip to Tokyo I decided to head to Ra.a.g.f. ‘Rabbit and grow fat’ – a rabbit café in trendy Harajuku.
After a bit of lost wandering through the boutiques and backstreets of Harajuku, I finally stumbled upon ‘Rabbit and grow fat’ (brilliant name!). It wasn’t the most fragrant of Harajuku buildings, but once inside the café I was in a little haven of bunny bliss.
The staff spoke no English, but welcomed me warmly and presented me with a list of rules and prices. For a small fee I could stay for 30 minutes (700 yen) or an hour (1,100 yen), have a drink, and choose a rabbit to play with and feed (150 yen for rabbit snacks).
The rabbits are all kept in cages, and guests can look at them and stroke them and choose one to play with. If you get bored of the rabbit you’ve chosen, you can ask to switch it for another one (which I felt kind of bad doing, although I’m sure the rabbits don’t mind!).
I chose this little chap to keep me company. He was very ‘genki’ (energetic) and dashed about the café having the time of his life.
Animal welfare is a concern of mine, but all of the rabbits at Ra.a.g.f. seemed happy and healthy. The staff clearly loved the animals and enjoyed their jobs, and the atmosphere in the café was one of being in someone’s home.
So, next time you’re in Tokyo why not take a break from the hustle and bustle of the shops and chill out with a cup of tea and a fluffy friend?