Travelers with a soft spot for cats will likely find this tour a delightful way to explore Tokyo’s most charming feline spots. While it’s tailored for cat enthusiasts, it also offers a nicely balanced glimpse into Tokyo’s quirky side, making it appealing for general travelers looking for a fun, culturally interesting experience.
Two things we particularly like are the chance to visit Gotokuji Temple, home to thousands of lucky cats, and the opportunity to snap Instagram-worthy photos of the Giant 3D Cat in Shinjuku. Both spots are wonderfully photogenic and provide a sense of Japanese pop culture mixed with tradition. However, a consideration for those with mobility challenges is the walking involved—about 10 minutes from the station to Gotokuji, which might be a stretch for some.
This tour is best suited for families, friends, and solo travelers who enjoy animals, vibrant street scenes, and a little playful sightseeing. It’s especially perfect for anyone wanting a light-hearted, engaging day that combines culture, fun, and adorable encounters.
Tokyo: Gotokuji Cat Temple, Shinjuku Cat Cafe & 3D Cat Tour
“We really enjoyed our tour. We did not feel rushed and our guide, Hiro, was very friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!”
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Key Points
- Authentic Cat Culture: The tour gets you up close with Japan’s love for cats, from traditional temples to modern pop icons.
- Photogenic Spots: Perfect for social media lovers with Instagrammable sights like the Giant 3D Cat mural.
- Engaging Guide: The reviews highlight Hiro’s friendly, knowledgeable approach, making the experience informative and fun.
- Cat Café Experience: Enjoy a 30-minute visit to Japan’s largest cat café, where you can relax with cats during their breakfast time.
- Local Shopping: Explore charming cat-themed shops and sweets in Gotokuji, adding a sweet touch to your day.
- Value for Money: At $59, the tour offers a full morning or afternoon of entertaining, feline-focused activities with included admission.
This cat-themed adventure in Tokyo promises a blend of tradition, pop culture, and adorable feline companionship. Starting at the JR Shinjuku East Exit Station Square, the tour kicks off with the guide holding a group name board, making the meeting straightforward despite Tokyo’s sprawling station complex. A gentle walk of around 10 minutes from the station brings you to the Gotokuji Temple, a peaceful spot filled with thousands of lucky cats or Maneki-neko statues, which are believed to bring good fortune and wealth.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tokyo.
Contents
- Key Points
- Gotokuji Cat Temple: A Lucky Cat Haven
- Shinjuku’s 3D Cat & Social Media Fame
- Japan’s Largest Cat Café: Relaxing with Felines
- Shopping and Sweets at Cat Town
- Our Top Picks in Tokyo
- More Tours in Tokyo
- More Tour Reviews in Tokyo
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Tokyo we have recnetly reviewed
Gotokuji Cat Temple: A Lucky Cat Haven
We loved the way the guide explained the history and significance of the temple’s lucky cats. It’s more than just a photo opportunity; it’s a window into Japanese beliefs about prosperity and superstition. The sheer number of cats, possibly reaching ten-thousand, creates a whimsical, almost enchanted atmosphere. Visitors often comment that it’s a peaceful place, with a sense of spiritual connection, despite its popularity.
While the temple itself isn’t large, the array of cat statues and related souvenirs makes it a delightful stop. The local shopping street near the temple offers various cat-themed shops and sweet stores, perfect for picking up souvenirs or treats. One reviewer mentioned, “The cat items store and cat sweets store were trending on Instagram, and I could see why—so many adorable and quirky things!”
Shinjuku’s 3D Cat & Social Media Fame
Next, the tour takes you to the heart of Tokyo’s modern flair: Shinjuku, where the Giant 3D Cat mural dominates the billboards and social media feeds. This insta-famous billboard features a large, colorful cat that appears to be jumping out of the building, offering a playful and vibrant photo backdrop. It’s a quick stop but one that many visitors find surprisingly charming and a great conversation starter about Japan’s love for kawaii culture.
You’ll learn about the billboard’s story through your guide, adding context to its popularity. It’s a fun contrast to the serene temple visit, showcasing Tokyo’s eclectic mix of old and new.
Japan’s Largest Cat Café: Relaxing with Felines
The highlight for many is the time spent at Japan’s largest cat café. For about 30 minutes, you’re invited to interact with cats during their breakfast time, a period when the café is bustling with adorable felines eager for treats. Expect a cozy, well-maintained space where you can play, pet, and relax with a variety of cats, many of whom are well-cared-for and friendly.
Reviewers rave about the luxurious atmosphere and fancy cats—one called it “the most luxurious cat café I’ve ever been to.” It’s a gentle, stress-free environment that’s ideal for cat lovers to unwind. The $59 fee includes the visit and a free drink bar, making it a good value for animal enthusiasts.
More Great Tours NearbyShopping and Sweets at Cat Town
The tour continues with time to browse cat-themed shops and sweets stores, which are popular on Instagram. These stores sell everything from cute accessories to delicious cat-shaped confections, adding a fun shopping element. Visiting these shops helps you soak in more local flavor and perhaps pick up a quirky gift or two.
The tour’s total duration includes walking and train travel, so comfortable shoes are a must. The meeting point is conveniently located at Shinjuku Station’s East Exit Square, right in front of the large 3D Cat billboard. The group size is not specified but reviews suggest a friendly, small-group atmosphere, with the guide paying close attention to participant needs.
For those concerned about accessibility, keep in mind the 10-minute walk from Gotokuji Station. Also, the cat café has a minimum age of 13, which is important if traveling with children. If your child is underage, the provider recommends contacting them beforehand for alternative options.
The tour is offered in English and has a flexible pay later reservation policy, which offers peace of mind for planning.
At $59, this tour offers good value for a well-rounded, engaging experience. You gain access to some of Tokyo’s most beloved and quirky cat spots, receive informative commentary from a passionate guide, and enjoy relaxed interactions with adorable cats. It’s an ideal choice for cat lovers, but also for travelers wanting a fun, culturally rich, and slightly whimsical day out.
The reviews echo this sentiment: “Hiro was a fantastic guide,” “the cats are really cute,” and “highly recommended if you want to know more about Japanese culture and its relationship with cats.” Participants appreciate the guide’s friendliness and the chance to learn about Japanese beliefs and pop culture.
This Tokyo Cat Tour offers a unique blend of tradition, pop culture, and adorable animal encounters, making it a memorable experience for feline fans and curious travelers alike. It’s particularly suited for those interested in Japanese kawaii culture, looking for fun photo opportunities, or simply wanting a relaxing day with some of the city’s cutest residents.
The inclusion of a large cat café visit makes it stand out, providing a genuine chance to interact with cats in a comfortable environment. Meanwhile, the visit to Gotokuji Temple offers a peaceful, spiritual side of Tokyo, contrasting nicely with the flashy billboard in Shinjuku.
Overall, if you want an engaging, well-organized, and irresistibly cute tour that balances cultural insight with fun, this experience delivers excellent value. It’s perfect for flexible travelers who enjoy a little whimsy, appreciate knowledgeable guides, and want to take home some delightful memories—and perhaps a few adorable photos.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only children aged 13 and older are permitted at the cat café. If you’re traveling with younger children, contact the provider beforehand to discuss options.
How long does the walking part take?
The walk from Gotokuji Station to the temple takes about 10 minutes. The entire tour includes walking, train travel, and visits, so plan to wear comfortable shoes.
What’s included in the price?
The price of $59 covers the guided tour of the cat-themed attractions, admission to the cat café for a 30-minute stay, and a free drink bar.
Are there any extra costs?
You’ll need to cover train fares (~¥200) and personal expenses, such as souvenirs or additional snacks.
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the walking is minimal, the walk from the station to Gotokuji may be a consideration. The tour does not specify wheelchair accessibility, so contact the provider if needed.
What’s the best time of day for this tour?
The tour features cats during their breakfast time at the café, so morning or early afternoon sessions are ideal.
Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve with the option to pay later. Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
To sum it up, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated mix of tradition, pop culture, and adorable encounters, making it a worthwhile addition to any cat-loving traveler’s itinerary. It’s a playful, affordable way to see some of Tokyo’s most charming sights while indulging your love for cats. Whether you’re snapping photos, learning about lucky cats, or just relaxing among furry friends, this experience is sure to leave a warm, fuzzy feeling.
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