Kyoto: Private Ethical Cat Sanctuary & Tea Ceremony

Duration1h 30m

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesGerman, Korean, Japanese, English, Chinese, Italian, French, Spanish

Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

An ethical Private Retreat with rescued cats, created for travelers who seek calm, authenticity, and mindful connection. Set in a traditional Kyoto townhouse, this quiet experience offers unhurried time alongside cats in a peaceful, uncrowded setting.

What's included

Tea ceremony experience with premium Uji matcha — high-grade, authentic Japanese matcha selected for its rich flavor and smooth finish.
Cat treats for gentle interaction
Original Utanekodo postcard
Quiet session with rescued cats
Vegan and gluten-free cat-shaped Japanese sweet

Additional food and drinks
Guests who forget to bring socks will be required to purchase a pair for 200 yen.
Transportation to and from the venue

What to expect

You are invited to a private retreat in a traditional Kyoto machiya, reserved entirely for you and your group.

Hidden in a quiet alley, this historic townhouse reflects the way people have lived in Kyoto for generations. Today, it is also a peaceful home where rescued cats live freely at their own pace.

Step inside and the rhythm of sightseeing begins to fade. Watching the cats sleep, wander, and simply be themselves helps you slow down too. With no other guests sharing the space, you can relax and enjoy the quiet without distraction.

You will also experience a mindful Japanese tea ceremony with premium Uji matcha. Preparing and tasting the tea slowly offers another moment to rest and feel the calm spirit of Japanese tea culture.

This private experience is ideal for couples, honeymooners, families who value privacy, special occasions, or as a memorable gift.

Interaction with the cats is always gentle and on their terms, preserving the natural, peaceful atmosphere of their home.

More than a visit, this is an invitation to pause, breathe, and share a quiet moment in Kyoto with the cats and tea.

Your visit also helps support the rescued cats and their peaceful everyday lives.

THE CAT RETREAT at UTANEKODO

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please come directly to THE CAT RETREAT at UTANEKODO.
The retreat is located down a small alley; walk to the very end and look for the entrance with the noren (curtain) hanging at the door.
There is no separate meeting point – we will welcome you at the entrance at your reserved time.

End point

Please come directly to THE CAT RETREAT at UTANEKODO.
The retreat is located down a small alley; walk to the very end and look for the entrance with the noren (curtain) hanging at the door.
There is no separate meeting point – we will welcome you at the entrance at your reserved time.

Additional information

Public transportation options are available nearby
UTANEKODO is a fragrance-free venue for the comfort and safety of our cats and guests. Please do not wear perfume, cologne, body spray, or other added fragrance when visiting. If fragrance can be clearly detected on arrival, entry may be refused. No refund or same-day rescheduling will be provided in that case.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

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