OWL CAFE

Name of Cafe: Fukuro No Sato 

Address: 4F Harajuku-ATM Building, 21-15 Jingymae 1 Chome, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

Opening Hours: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Animal themed cafes are famous in Tokyo. From cats, dogs, rabbits, goats and to a slithering snake café, these places are often packed with curious visitors. But to keep things fresh, Japan is offering a more unique experience. You can now meet and play with real owls.

Bob, a Eurasian Eagle Owl

Barn Owls: Canon and Alto 

There are several famed owl cafes in Tokyo. The one I visited is Fukuro No Sato in Harajuku. It’s no sweat going there. Just get off at Harajuku station and take the Takeshita exit. Turn left when you see the big arc and you’ll see this sign in one of the alleys.

The entrance of Harajuku-ATM Building

You will be greeted by friendly attendants who are eager to explain the rules inside the café. As far as I remember these are the things written in the rulebook:

1. No flash photography

2. Don’t make a loud noise. Owls are very sensitive to sound.

3. Put your phone to silent mode.

4. Ask assistance from the staff if you want to feed the owl.

5. Wear gloves when you put the owl on your arm. Gloves will be provided by the staff.

Once ready, you can choose your package at the cafe. A 30-minute playtime with the owls costs Y1,000. If you want more time, avail the Y1,500 package which entails an hour with the owls plus 1 free drink and souvenir.

This is the area where you can sip your coffee or tea before playing with the owls

You can buy souvenirs such as pins, photos and owl feathers

At first you might be intimidated by the owls especially when they start flapping their massive wings. You will feel their power when you stare at their bright round eyes. But don’t be scared. Owls are gentle creatures too. And as you start petting them, you will develop a strong fondness for these nocturnal birds.

How about a staring challenge with an owl?

Owls have very soft feathers. Compared to other birds, they have specialized feathers that allow them to fly silently. This ability helps them capture their prey by stealth. Most owls have cryptic color which enables them to blend with the surroundings. It makes them less prone to potential danger.

Ohagi, the tiniest and youngest owl in the room 

There are seven owls in Fukuro No Sato. My favorite is Canon, the calm barn owl who reminds me of Harry Potter’s Hedwig. I was told by the staff that Canon is the friendliest in the group. Visitors love taking selfies with her. There’s also an older barn owl named Alto. These two are often seen together in photographs around the café.  

Such a gentle barn owl, Canon

Kukku, the Bengal eagle-owl or rock eagle-owl is said to be common in Paris. This kind of owl is also famous for its deep resonant call. Too bad I didn't hear any of them make a sound.

I was also hoping I would see their heads turn. Owls can rotate their head at almost 270 degrees.

The mighty “Kukku”

I must admit, I was easily charmed by the tiny owl named Schola. His gray and white feathers are very soft. Trust me you would want to bring him home.

Selfie with Schola. Kawaii! 

Be as mild as you can be with the owls. And don’t forget to follow the rules. After all, you wouldn’t want these adorable fowls to be harmed. Enjoy your visit at Fukuro No Sato!