Japanese culture 101: Why are themed cafes so popular in Japan?

In this article, let’s tag along with GoEMON to explore the popularity and diversity of themed cafes in Japan - one of the nation’s most distinct and interesting cultural aspects! 

1. Themed cafes in Japan

When someone mentions the word “cafe,” what is the first thing that pops up in your head? Most people might think of a peaceful shop where one comes in to grab a drink, chat with their friends, chill, or get some work done. This; however, is not the case in Japan. Cafes in Japan are much more diverse than that: many of them follow a specific theme, hence the name themed cafes, which creates a fun and distinctive atmosphere that radically differs from that of a normal, traditional cafe. As mentioned earlier, the list goes on and on, from maids, animals, different manga and anime shows, etc. And as the list goes on and on, everyone can find a themed cafe that is to their liking. Themed cafes are most densely situated in Tokyo - the busiest area of Japan.

But what makes these themed cafes so common and diverse in Japan? Let’s find out down below! 

2. Otaku culture 

The first, which most likely is also the major reason why themed cafes are so common in Japan is due to the Otaku Culture. Most people would associate otaku with people who have an extreme interest in anime and manga. However, the phrase is not only restricted within these two concepts but can be referred to huge fans that are devoted to anything at all, may it be idols and novels to sports, history, or even otaku of a specific type of food. 

One thing to note about otaku is that they are extremely devoted to their interest, dedicating most of (or even all of) their free time and money to the thing that they truly love. Thus, many of them will also go to any events with the name of their interest attached to, in which one example is of course, themed cafes. These can include temporary themed cafes, which only open for a limited amount of time as a collaboration, or non-temporary ones, which are not limited to a certain period only). 

Additionally, the themed cafes here, most of the time, are also very nicely decorated with a well-designed menu of appetizing and cutely looking foods. This helps them attract customers who are not otaku but are there for the experience as well. 

3. Love for animals 

Another contributing reason is due to the Japanese’s love for animals, which explains the immense number of pet cafes here. You can find pet cafes everywhere on the streets of Japan, and this concept of pet cafes has gotten so famous to the point of permeating into other countries as well. 

Most apartments in Japan do not allow pets, thus animal lovers would often go to these pet cafes to spend some quality time with their favorite animals. 

4. Escape from reality 

It is a well-known fact that the working culture in Japan is one of the harshest and most stressful in the world. Thus, many people would choose to go to themed cafes to let off some steam and relax among people with the same hobbies as themselves. This is also another reason contributing to the fame of themed cafes here. 

In this article, GoEMON has introduced you to the themed cafe culture in Japan along with several reasons for its popularity. 

What about you? Have you ever been to a themed cafe? Let us know in the comments down below! 

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