The aspect of the Japanese pop sub-culture that comprises adorable, intense, and enviable animated characters is one that many people are familiar with around the world.
Anime blew onto our screens somewhere in the pre-2000s, and since then, people from all corners of the globe have become huge and loyal fans of such animations as Pokemon (probably one of the biggest animes in the world), Sailor Moon, Dragon Ball Z, and One Piece, just to name a few.
Of course, one of the quintessential parts of visiting a city like Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is paying a visit to an anime-themed café!
These cafes pay homage to some of the world’s favorite characters, from inspired desserts, to waiters dressed up in custom, and limited-edition merchandise.
Even if you’re not a major fan, anime-themed cafes offer a cool and unique experience you’ll unlikely get anywhere else around the world.
Let’s have a look at some of the best anime-themed cafes in Tokyo you can (and should) visit!
1. Pokemon Cafe
The highly sought-after Pokemon Cafe is an experience unlike any other. Most of us have grown up alongside Ash, Pikachu, and all the loveable characters of the Pokemon World, and the chance to explore a cafe dedicated to bringing them to life (as much as possible) is too good to miss!
Pokemon cafes and restaurants have long existed in Tokyo via pop-up stores and collaborations. However, the Pokemon Cafe in Nihonbashi is the world’s first (and largest!) Pokemon Cafe to become a permanent fixture.
The food and drinks there is everything you can imagine at a Pokemon Cafe. A Pikachu chef, an Evee-inspired hamburger plate, a Snorlax-inspired lunch plate – and there’s even a ‘Choose Your Pokemon’ latte option! You’ll be spoilt for choice.
- Hours: 10:30 am – 10:00 pm
- Address: Pokemon Cafe
- Reservations: You must make a reservation in advance to visit this Pokemon cafe. They accept reservations 30 days before your visit but only hold them for 15 minutes past your reservation time, so try not to be late.
- Make your reservation here: Pokemon Cafe in Nihonbashi
You May Also Like: Best Pokemon Shops And Stores In Tokyo
2. Cinnamonroll Cafe
As one of the most popular Sanrio characters, it should come as no surprise that Cinnamonroll, the adorable white puppy with the big blue eyes, floppy ears, and an adorable curly tail, has its very own dedicated cafe!
Situated within the busy suburb of Shinjuku, the themed cafe is one of a few Sanrio cafes that have drawn thousands of tourists over the years since their opening.
This particular Cinnamonroll Cafe serves up quite frankly some of the most charming and delicious-looking meals. Not only do they look almost too cute to eat, but the raving reviews about their delectable taste means you know you’ll be getting a decent meal!
Examples of some of their popular dishes include Omurice, Beef Stroganoff, special shortcakes, parfaits, and pancakes, as well as their ever-changing seasonal menu items. They also have the cutest drinks!
If you’re looking for the full experience, go shopping for some merchandise and limited-edition items after you finish your meal.
- Hours: 11:00 am-8:00 pm
- Address: Cinnamonroll Cafe
3. Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory – ‘Totoro Cafe’
Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory is Tokyo’s unofficial ‘Totoro Café’. This quaint, captivating little bakery is still considered a hidden gem, tucked away in the streets of Setagaya, which is one of the more boho-retro neighborhoods in Tokyo.
Everyone knows about Studio Ghibli, and Totoro is considered one of the fundamental characters from the animation studio. This bakery is, in fact, the only official bakery for Totoro-inspired baked goods in the entire world!
The most popular item here is the Totoro Cream Puffs. These adorable pocket-sized cream puffs look like Totoro himself – which might make it difficult to take the first bite!
It is a takeaway joint on the bottom floor and you’ll regularly see a stream of enthusiasts lining up to purchase boxes of them. Otherwise, you can also head up to the second floor of the cafe to savor the goodies along with a coffee or tea.
The cream puffs are often sold out, so we recommended heading there sometime in the morning so you don’t miss out!
- Hours: 10:30am – 7:00pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
- Address: Shiro-Hige’s Cream Puff Factory – ‘Totoro Cafe’
Discover more things to do in Setagaya here!
4. Kirby Cafe
It’s time for you to experience Kirby like never before!
Kirby’s Dream Land is an adorable themed cafe located within the Tokyo Skytree Tower. The playful spirit of Kirby is alive and thriving here, and with its permanency within the Tokyo Solamachi shopping precinct, you can be surrounded by Kirby any time of the year.
When you enter the cafe, there are many elements from the popular Kirby game present. From a life-sized Whispy Woods to cutlery sets inspired by the game, you’ll be delighted at just how much detail has been pulled from the game here.
You’ll be spoilt for choice with all the Kirby-inspired dishes evident on the menu. However, the real draw (for us anyway!) is the latte-themed art that’s centered upon Kirby. With three different flavors to choose from, Cafe au Lait, Banana au Lait, and Strawberry au Lait, there’s a drink for everyone here.
They also offer a seasonal menu which you can check beforehand on their website to see what’s being offered for a limited time only.
Make sure you don’t miss the Kirby Store located next door. Here’s how it looks like:
- Hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm
- Address: Kirby Cafe
5. Kamen Rider The Diner
The Kamen Rider cafe has to be in this top 10 Anime-themed cafes in Tokyo!
The Masked Rider franchise is an anime that only the purest of anime enthusiasts around the world would know about. Japanese people, however, grow up with this 90s classic that jams together heroic masked men fighting for humanity and survival.
It’s located in Ikebukuro, one of the most ‘happening’ areas in Tokyo. The food here is based on the popular characters of Kamen Rider. You have options such as the ‘Nice Drive Lasagne’ and the ‘Build Steel Moonsault drink’ – both very popular and visually appealing.
There is also a memorabilia section at this cafe where die-hard fans will be absolutely tickled pink with excitement. From actual props used on the show to costumes worn by the actors, it’s all there for you to gaze upon.
- Hours: Mon-Fri: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm, Sat-Sun: 11:00 am-10:00 pm
- Address: Kamen Rider The Diner
Interested in Anime shopping? Read our article about the best Anime stores in Akihabara!
6. Fujiko F. Fujio Museum Cafe – ‘Doraemon Cafe’
Everyone knows about the classic Doraemon character. This adorable cat-robot and his friends took Japan by storm when they first debuted in the late 1960s. Soon after, Doraemon became a global hit. His cute antics, loveable animation, and subsequent merchandise are now a staple in everyone’s childhood and home.
Although slightly outside of Tokyo, the ‘Doraemon Cafe’ is a must-visit for anyone who is a fan. Situated within an entire museum dedicated to Doraemon, the cafe is the perfect place to wind down after hours of experiencing exclusive exhibitions, installations, and artworks.
At the cafe, expect to be spoilt for choice with Doraemon-inspired items such as the Doraemon Ramen noodles, Doraemon’s Monjyaki Taste Pork Curry, and even Doraemon-inspired desserts!
For the ultimate surprise, order one of the Latte Art drinks – it will arrive with artwork of one of your favorite Doraemon characters on it.
- Hours: Sat-Sun: 11:00am-5:30pm, Mon-Fri: 11:00am-4:30pm (Closed Tuesdays)
- Address: Fujiko F. Fujio Museum Cafe – ‘Doraemon Cafe’
7. ARTNIA Square Enix
Fans of Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts, rejoice. Square Enix is home to some of the most recognizable video games and animations in the world, and it’s got its very own cafe right in the middle of Tokyo – ARTNIA.
The main attraction here is the alluring Final Fantasy shrine room. A stunning, sparkling display of crystals cascading down the middle of the room showcases the franchise’s distinct motif. Along the walls surrounding it are figurines and artworks of the classic characters of Final Fantasy, and in the background is original music from video games and films.
The food here has been hailed as delicious by visitors. From soft and fluffy ‘Cloud’-like pancakes to distinct latte art, there are many items to choose from.
- Hours: 11:00 am-9:00 pm (Closed Tuesdays)
- Address: ARTNIA Square Enix
8. Straw Hat Cafe Ghibli Museum Cafe
The Straw Hat Cafe is a dedicated cafe located within the famous Ghibli Museum. Of course, people would head here first and foremost to experience the wonderful world of Ghibli. Their animated films are one in a million and have become a staple rewatch for many children and adults alike.
The museum has statues, figurines, experiences, exhibitions, and plenty of photo opportunities for visitors. Once you’re done visiting, definitely head to the Straw Hat Cafe to fuel up again.
At the cafe, you’ll find an amazing assortment of dishes to try. They feature real-sized food choices featured in Ghibli movies, such as the chocolate cake from Kiki’s Delivery Service. The interior is bright, colorful, and warming – exactly how you’d imagine a Ghibli-inspired Cafe to be.
- Hours: 10:00 am-5:00 pm (Closed Tuesdays)
- Address: Straw Hat Cafe Ghibli Museum Cafe
You May Also Like: Best Anime Shops In Tokyo
9. Pompompurin Cafe
If brightly colored booths and colorful dishes are your types of dining experience, Pompompurin Cafe is right up your alley. This adorable cafe in the heart of Shibuya, the party district of Tokyo, pays homage to the beloved Pompompurin, a golden retriever dog introduced by Sanrio in 1996.
Its charming features and personality has cemented it as a staple favorite amongst Sanrio characters, and this exciting and popular cafe is a testament to how much the public love it.
You can expect loveable dishes such as Pompompurin-inspired pancakes, curry, cold drinks, sundaes, rice, and coffee…the list is endless!
Almost everything is Instagrammable, from the adorable decor to the Pompompurin plush toys located around the cafe for you to hug, and of course, to the star of the show: the food!
- Hours: Mon-Fri: 11:00 am-8:00 pm, Sat-Sun: 10:00 am-8:00 pm
- Address: Pompompurin Cafe
10. Moonin Bakery & Cafe
The beloved Moomin stories of Finnish roots are extraordinarily popular in Japan. If you or any of your friends and family have also fallen in love with the adorable Finnish trolls, a visit to the Moomin Bakery & Cafe in Tokyo Dome is a must!
It’s open for breakfast, so pop in first thing in the morning and feast on some of the most adorable breakfast dishes you’ll lay your eyes on.
From the moment you step into the cafe, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to Moomin Valley. Decor reminiscent of Finnish animations will envelop you, and friendly staff will appear to whisk you away to a table to begin ordering.
The atmosphere is always cheerful, and their food options are fun and exciting. For individuals visiting this cafe, you won’t be dining alone. Moomin plush toys are sprinkled across the cafe to provide some company!
There are also some Finnish-inspired dishes for those looking for breakfast in Tokyo with a bit of a twist.
- Hours: 9:00 am-9:00 pm
- Address: Moonin Bakery & Cafe
I hope you enjoyed this list of the 10 best Anime-themed cafes in Tokyo!
One of the best things about Japan is that the pop and anime sub-culture absolutely delivers for its fans. It’s perfectly normal to feel exuberant and excited when visiting these cafes, and no one will judge you for spending hundreds of dollars on aesthetic-looking food and memorabilia to take home.
Tokyo is a mecca for pop-culture experiences, and whilst you may not be aware of some of the anime character cafes here, they’re all well worth the visit just for the experience alone.
If you are into Japanese pop culture, make sure you also read our blog posts about Anime in real life in Japan, 20 Anime locations in real-life in Tokyoand the 9 must-visit Retro Gaming shops in Akihabara!
You like Korean food? Then you should visit of these 10 best Korean restaurants in Shin-Okubo!
