Pet‑Friendly Tokyo: Where to Stay, Eat & Play with Your Furry Friend

Traveling with pets to Tokyo might seem challenging at first glance, but Japan's capital offers a surprising number of pet-friendly options for visitors with furry companions. While Japanese culture has traditionally kept pets and public spaces separate, recent years have seen a significant shift toward accommodating four-legged friends. This guide will help you navigate pet-friendly Tokyo, highlighting the best places to stay, dine, play, and explore with your animal companion.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Finding suitable lodging is the first priority when traveling with pets. Fortunately, Tokyo offers various options:

• Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo - This luxury hotel in Bunkyo features dedicated pet-friendly rooms with special amenities for dogs under 10kg.
• Hilton Tokyo - Located in Shinjuku, they welcome small to medium dogs with advance notice and a surcharge.
• Inuyama Backpackers - Despite the name (Inu = dog), this budget-friendly hostel in Koenji welcomes pets with prior arrangement.
• Mimaru Apartment Hotels - Several of their stylish apartment-style accommodations throughout Tokyo accept pets under 10kg.
• Airbnb - Many hosts specifically welcome pets; use the "pets allowed" filter when searching.

Pro Tip: Always notify accommodations in advance when bringing pets, even if they advertise as pet-friendly. Many have specific requirements or limited pet-friendly rooms that need reservation.

Pet-Friendly Dining

Tokyo offers numerous dining options where your pet can join you:

Dog Cafés

Beyond the famous cat cafés, Tokyo features establishments specifically designed for dog owners:

• Wan de Kurasu (Yoyogi) - A stylish café where both humans and dogs receive menus.
• Dog Heart (Odaiba) - Features indoor and outdoor seating with special dog meals.
• USHIHACHI (Roppongi) - An upscale restaurant with a separate menu for dogs.

Restaurant Patios

Many restaurants with outdoor seating welcome leashed pets:

• Yoyogi Park Village - Several restaurants with terrace seating welcome pets.
• Canal Café (Kagurazaka) - Waterfront dining where pets can join on the deck.
• Commune 246 (Omotesando) - An outdoor food court where pets are welcome in common areas.

For families traveling with both pets and children, check our Tokyo Family Travel Guide for additional recommendations on accommodations and dining that cater to everyone in your group.

Venue	Location	Pet Amenities	Restrictions
Wan de Kurasu	Yoyogi	Dog menu, water bowls	Vaccinations required
Yoyogi Park	Shibuya	Dog run, water stations	Leash required except in dog run
Hotel Chinzanso	Bunkyo	Dog beds, treats	Under 10kg only
Dog Heart Café	Odaiba	Dog menu, play area	Reservation recommended

Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Tokyo offers several parks where pets are welcome, though usually required to be leashed:

• Yoyogi Park - Features a dedicated dog run where pets can socialize off-leash. The main park allows leashed dogs.
• Komazawa Olympic Park - Includes a popular dog run with separate areas for small and large dogs.
• Kinuta Park - Located in Setagaya, this spacious park includes a dog run and plenty of walking paths.
• Shiba Park - A central park near Tokyo Tower that welcomes leashed pets.
• Kasai Rinkai Park - This large waterfront park in eastern Tokyo allows leashed dogs throughout most areas.

For people with mobility challenges or service animals, our Accessible Tokyo Guide provides additional information on navigating Tokyo's parks and public spaces.

Pet-Friendly Transportation

Getting around Tokyo with pets requires some planning:

• Trains & Subways - Small pets in carriers are permitted on most lines. They should be completely enclosed and not disturb other passengers. Generally, the pet and carrier combined should weigh less than 10kg.
• Taxis - Pet policies vary by company and driver. Ask your hotel to call a pet-friendly taxi service or use apps like Japan Taxi that allow you to specify pet transportation.
• Pet Taxis - Specialized services like "Pet Taxi Tokyo" cater specifically to animal transportation needs.
• Car Rentals - Companies like Toyota Rent-a-Car and Nippon Rent-a-Car permit pets in vehicles with advance notice and cleaning fees.

Pro Tip: When using public transportation, travel during off-peak hours (10 AM - 4 PM) to avoid crowded trains where your pet might cause inconvenience.

Pet Supply Stores

If you need supplies during your stay, Tokyo offers numerous pet shops:

• PEPPY - A large chain with locations in many shopping malls.
• Kojima Pet - Several branches throughout Tokyo offering premium food and supplies.
• Wan Wan Paradise - Specializing in dog products with locations in Shinjuku and Shibuya.
• Don Quijote - These 24-hour discount stores carry basic pet supplies.

Veterinary Services

In case of emergencies, these clinics offer services in English:

• Japan Animal Hospital (Shibuya) - English-speaking staff available and emergency services.
• Tokyo Veterinary Specialty Medical Animal Hospital (Nakano) - Advanced care and emergency services with English support.
• Daktari Animal Hospital (Shirokane) - Foreign-friendly clinic with English-speaking veterinarians.

Important Considerations Before Traveling

1. Import Requirements - Japan has strict pet import procedures requiring microchips, vaccinations, blood tests, and advance notification. Start preparations at least 7 months before travel.
2. Pet Etiquette - Japanese culture places high value on cleanliness and consideration. Always clean up after your pet and keep them leashed in public areas.
3. Size Restrictions - Many accommodations and services limit pets to 10kg or less. Larger dogs face more limited options.
4. Pet Carriers - A sturdy, comfortable carrier is essential for navigating Tokyo's public transportation.
5. Weather Considerations - Summer heat can be intense; plan outdoor activities in early morning or evening during hot months.

When planning your overall Tokyo itinerary with your pet, our Tokyo Itinerary guide can help you create a balanced schedule that includes pet-friendly activities alongside major attractions.

Tokyo's pet-friendly scene continues to evolve, with more businesses recognizing the importance of accommodating travelers with animal companions. While bringing your pet requires additional planning, the experience of exploring Japan's fascinating capital with your furry friend creates unique memories and allows you to experience the city from a different perspective. With careful preparation and respect for local customs, your pet-friendly Tokyo adventure awaits!