Before travelling: check age and clothing separately
House rules differ. MOCHA Shinjuku admits junior-high-school students and older, while Ikebukuro's main branch admits ages six and up. A socks requirement is not an age rule: check both for everyone coming.
- Neco Republic Ochanomizu requires opaque socks, not stockings.
- Nekomaru allows socks, stockings or similar coverings; do not transfer one shop's rules to another.
- Check permission before buying outside food, drinks or cat treats.
At reception: agree on time and extras
Our suggestion is to start with 60 minutes and confirm your finishing time. A fixed first-hour plan differs from charging in ten-minute units, especially if you leave early. Ask whether waiting and the briefing count toward paid time if it is unclear.
- Ask: 'One adult for 60 minutes—are there compulsory extras?'
- Walk-in does not mean a guaranteed seat. Decide how long you are willing to wait.
- Complete first-visit registration and the briefing before entering the cat room.
Inside: leave the cat a way to walk away
Sit and observe before reaching out. Do not chase a cat or block a hiding place. Ask staff how and where to interact, and stop when the cat moves away. Counting interactions is not a useful goal for a relaxed visit.
- Do not wake cats or reposition them for photos.
- Use only approved toys and treats, following the shop's limits.
- Ask staff if a cat seems distressed or unwell; do not diagnose it yourself.
Handling and photos: permission differs
MOFF Harajuku prohibits holding cats, flash and live streaming. Nekomaru asks visitors to speak to staff about holding a cat, which may still be declined based on its condition. There is no universal permission to pick cats up.
- Turn flash off before shooting and keep phones away from faces.
- Do not record other visitors, conversations or staff without permission.
- Commercial reuse and posting permission are separate from permission to take a photo.
A visit without contact is not a failure
Our suggestion: if the cats sleep or the room is busy, quietly observe and leave as planned. Remember one useful preference, such as reservable entry or a shorter stay, instead of judging the cats. It can guide your next choice.
- If you feel unwell or uncomfortable, tell staff and leave; seek professional medical advice for health concerns.
- Check your belongings and bill, and follow staff guidance around exit doors.
- Save the place as 'Visited' on your device to help plan next time.