A peaceful time in Japanese history, the Edo period gave rise to new and exciting art forms. One such art form was ukiyo-e, woodblock prints that depicted the entertainment and pleasure districts of Edo (the old name for Tokyo). But it wasn’t all geisha and samurai, these prints hinted at an emerging obsession with a certain animal.

Cats made regular appearances in ukiyo-e prints, indicating that the Japanese obsession with these furry creatures started way, way before Hello Kitty.

If you have a penchant for history as well as adorable kitties, these cat prints and the history behind them are brought to life at the Edo Cat Café (Edo Nekochaya).

Ukiyo-e style anthropomorphic cats decorate the venue, and all rest and play areas for the kitties blend in with the historical theme. There’s also plenty of hideaways for when it all gets too much for the furry inhabitants.

The settings have been constructed so that the cats can jump, sleep, play and scratch their way through the historical capital.

The café is split into several different areas based on popular locations of the time. The oft-depicted Edo public bathhouse makes an appearance (if you can imagine cats volunteering for a wash so willingly).

There’s also a room styled on the Edo period's pleasure quarters. However, you won’t be joined on the tatami by a lady of the night, you can instead enjoy some relaxing playtime with companions of the feline persuasion.

At 1500 yen for an hour it may not be the cheapest cat café around, but a portion of the earnings will go towards stray cat charities. By choosing Edo Cat Café you can contribute to the well being of cats in need, as well as take advantage of the well known healing properties of cute animals.

Address: Edo Cat Cafe (Edonekochaya) JR Ryogoku Station Event Space (West exit)

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