Japan is the birthplace of anime, so it comes as no surprise that you can find cafes and restaurants inspired by them all across Japan. From the word "character," these are known as chara (pronounced as kya-ra) cafés in Japan. Hold onto your seats and explore the world of chara cafés!
Pokémon Cafe
Welcome to the world’s first official Pokémon Cafe! There is not only one but three official Pokémon Cafes you can visit in Japan. Two of the cafes, located in Nihonbashi, Tokyo and Shinsaibashi, Osaka, is filled with cute and swoonworthy Pokémon goods and decors. Plus, if you’re lucky, you get to meet Pokémon mascots like the popular Pikachu at meet-and-greet events!
The café in Ikebukuro, Tokyo specializes in Pokémon-themed takeaway menu and merchandise. Enjoy adorable yet delicious dishes inspired by Pokémon's game series. To double the fun, check out the Pokémon Centres as well!
©2023 Pokémon. ©1995-2023 Nintendo/Creatures Inc. /GAME FREAK inc.
TM, ®, and character names are trademarks of Nintendo.
Store Details:
Pokémon Cafe, Nihonbashi, Tokyo*
Address: Nihombashi Takashimaya Shopping Center, East Building 5F | 2-11-2 Nihombashi, Chuo, Tokyo 103-8265
Hours: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM
*Reservation required
Pokémon Cafe, Shinsaibashi, Osaka*
Address: Daimaru Shinsaibashi Store, Main Building 9F | 1-7-1 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo, Osaka 542-8501
Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:30 PM
*Reservation required
Pikachu Sweets by Pokémon Cafe
Address: Sunshine City Alpa 2F | 3-1-2 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo 170-8630
Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Note: Operating hours may be subject to change without notice. Please check the website prior to your visit.
Hello Kitty Smile
To all Hello Kitty fans, rejoice! Awaji Island's Hello Kitty Smile theme park is inspired by Japan's famous folk tale and centres on Hello Kitty as Otohime living in the mystical palace, Ryugu Castle. Step into the world under the sea through attractions featuring the Ryugu Castle, Palace Theatre, Mirror Maze, the Hello Kitty Apple House, and more!
If you're feeling hungry, enjoy delectable meals at any of their four restaurants with charming Hello Kitty decors, food and drinks.
Check out two of the restaurants at Hello Kitty Smile below!
Garden Terrace
Sit back and relax as you take in the ocean view while enjoying a feast of authentic Chinese cuisine. Be sure to come on an empty stomach as it features an all-you-can-eat selection of dim sums and a variety of delicious courses!
Ryugu Restaurant Tamatebako
Want to feel re-energized after exploring the attractions at Hello Kitty Smile? Enter the Ryugu Restaurant Tamatebako! Be invigorated by their popular healthy hot pot with a variety of side dishes, all prepared using local ingredients.
The hot pot is referred to as tamate nabe inspired by the Japanese folktale Urashima Taro's tamate bako which means treasure box. When you open the hot pot, it looks like a treasure box of jewels overflowing with the richness of Awaji Island's local ingredients.
Both restaurants have its own allure and the best part is you get a chance to take a photo with Hello Kitty fully dressed as Princess Otohime!
©2023 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. L630788
Facility Information :
Hello Kitty Smile
Address: 985-1 Hikinoura Nojima, Awaji, Hyogo 656-1721
Hours: Weekdays 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Last admission 6:00 PM) ｜ Weekends and Public Holidays – 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
(Last admission 6:00 PM)
Official Website >
Get advisory information regarding COVID-19 situation in Japan
Go to Advisory Information website