It seems Japan’s affinity with hedgehogs does not end with Sega’s iconic character Sonic, as a recently opened animal-themed cafe in Tokyo brings together an unusual pairing of hedgehogs and coffee.
Cafe “Harry,” which is a play on the Japanese word for hedgehog, offers guests the chance to get up close and personal with dozens of furry critters while getting their daily dose of caffeine.
According to theguardian.com, customers can pet the adorable creatures by coughing up 1000¥ (P424.69) on weekdays and 12¥ (P552.10) on holidays.
The shop has been popular with customers—evident by the long lines they get most weekends—since its opening last February according to “Harry” cafe employee, Mizuki Morata.
“We wanted to show people the charm of hedgehogs, which give the impression of being hard to handle. We wanted to get rid of that image by letting people touch them,” she said.
“The cutest thing about hedgehogs is getting them to finally open up and show you their face.” added Morata, who also works in a rabbit cafe in the same building.
Japan has been the pioneer of animal concept dining experience, with various stores around the world catering to folks who don’t mind sipping their coffee together with rabbits, birds, snakes and surprisingly—even penguins. Khristian Ibarrola, INQUIRER.net