Top picture source: WanderLuxe
It is not a surprise that Japan is known as a haven for unique and bizarre things. The Japanese come up with ideas and inventions that never cease to amaze people around the world. Which is why you should not be surprised if they come up with ways to make sure your dining experience is fun and memorable. Cue, themed cafes. From robots to ninjas, BP-Guide will guide you to 7 most interesting themed cafes/restaurants in Tokyo!
1. Robot Restaurant
Yes, it is really called Robot Restaurant. Also, this establishment it is not really a restaurant but it does stand true to the robot part. While you will not get to see giant mecha battles, you do get to see staff dressed as cyborgs taking on robots on the floor. That, combined with loud music and neon lights shooting from all directions will certainly create an andrenaline-pumped evening for you, perfect for those who like the atmosphere in the club but would rather sit down and enjoy watching others dance. If you are interested, be sure to book in advance as it tends to be really crowded every night.
Address: 1-7-1 Kabukicho | B2f, Kabukicho, Shinjuku 160-0021, Tokyo
2. Hedgehog Cafe (Chiku Chiku Cafe)
So you have been to cafes where you can see and interact with cats and dogs, but what about hedgehog? These exotic animals are what you can connect with when you visit this cafe. Only by visiting the cafe will you learn how cute hedgehogs truly are. You will see them in their mini houses doing their thing while setting your cute meters ablaze. Also, you can play with them and take photos with them as long as you follow the instructions from the staff/caretakers at the cafe. You can be assured that the food they serve is intended for human, though, and is really delicious.
Address: Daikyo Shibuya Bldg 2F, 1-13-5 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku Tokyo
3. Vampire Cafe
If you are a vampire enthusiast, this cafe might be the one for you. Illuminated in blood red light, the cafe presents itself as a vampire lair with coffins casually placed in parts of the cafe. The waiters are also dressed like vampires, possibly awakening the Bella Swan in you. True to its theme, this cafe only opens from 5 pm every day. If you are worried about the food, don't be because the food here is great. Some may visually frighten you, but when you are in a vampire lair, you do things like a vampire would, right?
Address: 6-7-6 Ginza | 7th La Paix Building, Chuo 104-0061, Tokyo
4. Moomin House Cafe
Moomin is the name of a cartoon character designed by a Finnish illustrator named Tove Jansson. If you are already a Moomin fan, this cafe is a must-visit! Located near Tokyo Skytree station, this cafe provides solace to the tired legs of locals and tourists alike with giant Moomin plush to accompany you. Perfect for those who would like to spend time in a cafe alone but also suitable for friends and family who need Moomin in their lives. Moomin cafe is so popular that there are three outlets of Moomin cafes in Tokyo alone.
Address: Tokyo Dome City, 1-1-1 Kasuga, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
5. Alice in Magical Land Cafe
Have you ever imagined getting lost in the universe of Alice in Wonderland? Lucky for you, there is no need to chase any talking rabbits nor get into a magical hole to get there. All it takes is just a short walk from Shinjuku station. Then, you can find a cafe that brings the world of Alice in Wonderland to life. You will feel like you've stepped into a different universe as soon as you enter this unique themed cafe. From waitresses dressed as Alice to Cheshire-cat-shaped spaghetti, you will surely be able to relive your Alice fantasy. If you like this one, you can also consider visiting the other 4 outlets in Tokyo.
Address: D1-5-1 Nishishinjuku | Shinjuku Nishiguchi Hulk B3, Shinjuku 160-0023, Tokyo
6. Sengoku Buyuden
Are you a Japanophile, a samurai enthusiast, or simply a casual tourist interested in Japanese history and culture? Whatever it is, you will surely find this cafe worth visiting. Here,you can see many replicas of armor and other military equipment that belonged to samurais from the Sengoku period such as the famed Date Masamune and Yukimura Sanada. You can also wield some of the sword replicas and take pictures to your heart's content to make your visit unforgettable. Oh, and the food is really nice although it is on the pricey side.
Address: T-wing building 4F, 1-6-2, Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
7. Ninja Akasaka
If you are more of a ninja person than a samurai person, this is for you. Just two minutes walk from Tokyo Metro Akasaka Mitsuke Station, Ninja Akasaka is located right next to the entrance to Tokyu Plaza. Once you are there, you will be guided by the ninja staff into the ninja village. While you don't get to throw shurikens, you can enjoy some magic tricks performed by the ninja staff if your order exceeds 3000 yen. Also, don't be surprised when you find a ninja staff casually hiding in the shadows like the one below.
Address: Tokyu Plaza 1st Floor, 2-14-3 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Akasaka, Tokyo