There are loads of animal cafes in Japan, from cats & dogs to more exotic animals like piglets, otters, capybaras and owls, and many don’t have a good reputation when it comes to caring for the animals. So it was with a bit of concern that we looked into these. We think we found a decent one in Tokyo for otters so went along to have a play.

They give you a protective plastic skirt, zip up top, masks and slippers to wear. Partly to protect the otters but also your clothes and anything in your pockets. The otters are very curious and like to get into your pockets and even shoes! You need to leave everything outside in the lockers and just take your phone in.

It’s a bit smelly but you adjust fairly quickly once you see their cute faces. They are so playful and love to slide across the floor and roll about. There were a few little toys for visitors to play with them and they had an open cage in the corner where the otters could retreat to. Visitors were under strict instructions to stay seated and not move about, so it seemed fairly well run.

The staff do encourage the otters to climb on you and they will stay on your lap for a few moments before rolling off to play with a friend, sliding on the floor or investigating the new people entering the room.

They are very cute and amazingly soft – I was surprised how pattable they were 😍