Coffee, Tea, Spirits, and Cats

Cats have been a strong part of Japan’s culture. Japan even has shrines devoted to cats—Nambujinja  in Nagaoka (Niigata Prefecture), Konoshimajinja in Kyotango City (Kyoto), and Neko jinja in Tashirojima (Miyagi Prefecture), also known as Cat Island, a small fishing village with about 100 residents. Local cats outnumber the people four to one.

Meanwhile, in Japan’s capital, Tokyo, cat cafés are a popular hangout for many. There are about 39 cat cafés around the bustling metropolis. The popularity of cat cafés can be attributed to many apartment buildings not allowing pets. Many Japanese find being around these cute, furry, and lovable creatures a great way to relax and unwind.

There are several types of cat cafés with various cat themes like rare cat breeds, stray cats, or just black cats. Cat cafés have to comply with the strict regulations and requirements of Japan’s Animal Treatment/Protection Law to make sure that cleanliness in the establishments and animal welfare are met. It sure is a wonderful way to enjoy a cup of coffee.

But what if you want something stronger than a cup of Joe?  Only six minutes from Ikebukuro Station, in the Ashigaoka neighborhood, a unique pub and restaurant (izakaya) is attracting a loyal clientele looking for just that. Akanasu is a one-of-a-kind pub that is also home to several cats. According to the pub’s owner, Koyanagai, not only customers from Tokyo come to have a drink and a meal, but also people from as far as Aomori Prefecture travel all the way to his pub to relax and be with the cats.

There are numerous cat breeds from all around the world, but only one native to Japan and Southeast Asia: the Japanese Bobtail. The breed is known for having a unique bobbed tail that resembles that of a rabbit, has existed in Japan for centuries, and commonly appears in Japanese folklore and art. In Japan’s colorful history and today’s society, cats remain loyal companions to many.