#237 | OWL CAFE HARAJUKU

TOKYO, JAPAN

Japan has no shortage of fun, interesting and strange things to do. We knew we wanted to visit an Owl Cafe while we were there, and knew that it was best to book a slot in advance so as not to be left disappointed, but because we're travelling with a larger group than our usual 2, plus we're with mum and dad this time, it was easier to be more flexible when it came to timings for activities. There's an Owl Cafe at Harajuku, so while we were in the area, we went to try our luck. They were booked out that afternoon, and suggested we come back a little later. I asked if we could have a shorter session, and because they just wrapped up the last group, they said we can have a 15 minute session, instead of the usual 30 minutes. Happy with that option, we got right into it. We met two owls that day and during the session, we got to carry and pet them, and learned a little bit about them. It was a pretty fun experience to be that close to an owl, but on reflection, I don't know how I feel about having supported a business like this. The worker with us at the time definitely cared for the owls, but the room we were in was quite small and the owls appear to be tethered for most, if not the entire day. Although seemingly well taken care of, the owls did appear a little sleepy while we were there. They are nocturnal animals after all, so it felt like we were intruding on their rest time. After really thinking about the experience we had, and although it was enjoyable for us, we won't be recommending this activity to others or doing it again. 

Owl Cafe Village

150-0001, 4F HARAJUKU-ATM Building, 21-15,
​Jingumae 1 Chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo