When we travel abroad and look for hotels, our top priorities usually include price, environment, and travel time. Of course, we hope our accommodations are comfortable and hygienic. But if there's an extra perk, it can definitely add a wonderful memory to the trip. Here, the "perk" isn't just something trivial like getting an extra pack of wet wipes — it's about some inns and guesthouses having pets, like cats, on the premises.
In 2023, Japan conducted a nationwide survey called the "Japan Ryokan (Inn) Cat Ranking", which selected 39 popular "shop cats" from lodging facilities across the country. A total of 3,926 votes were cast to determine the rankings. Let's take a look at the top ten cats and their inns!
Although not every accommodation has cats, having them definitely adds a unique charm. Most of these cats are very friendly and unafraid of people. Some may even come to you while you're eating or sitting in the inn, sometimes hopping onto your lap to nap. Their affectionate and cuddly nature often becomes one of the sweetest memories guests take home from their stay.
Top 10 Cat Ambassadors of Japanese Inns (2023)
- #10 "Myu" – Izu Kogen, Cat-Friendly Petit Hotel Fromage / Shizuoka Prefecture
- #9 "Uni" – Ito Onsen, Apple Sea, a Pet-Friendly Inn for Dogs / Shizuoka Prefecture
- #8 "Koyuki" – Yufuin Onsen, Healing Inn Takakatsu / Oita Prefecture
- #7 "Gaa" – Kishu Onsen, Saika no Yu Futagojima Inn / Wakayama Prefecture
- #6 "Rai" – Usami Onsen, Sea Breeze Minshuku / Shizuoka Prefecture
- #5 "Kogorou" – Mad Cat Hostel Osaka / Osaka Prefecture
- #4 "Kii" – Minamiya, an Inn to Play with Mountains and Cats / Nagano Prefecture
- #3 "Anzu" – Yufuin, Laughing Cat Inn / Oita Prefecture
- #2 "Mugi" – Nozawa Onsen, Kiriya Ryokan / Nagano Prefecture
- #1 "Omochi" – Beppu Onsen, Shintama Ryokan / Oita Prefecture
Some inns may have just one popular "shop cat", while the number of cats they keep can vary widely — some have 6 to 7 cats, and others even boast as many as 80 cats! (Imagine that!) So, if you're planning a trip to Japan, besides considering price, service, and travel time, you might want to think about staying somewhere that offers the special companionship of cats.
Enjoy your travels and may your stay be filled with cozy purrs and unforgettable memories!
