Meet Rakuten Travel’s top reception cats

Planning to visit Japan this year? Some Rakuten Travel users may have an adorable surprise waiting at their stay.

Back in February, Rakuten Travel revealed its ranking of the service’s most popular reception cats – friendly felines who greet travelers at their hotels. From 34 applicants, over 3,000 voters determined the top 20 cuddly concierges. Here are the top three for your appreciation.

Two-time champion Omochi from Oita

Once again topping the charts was Omochi, the two-time champion hailing from Oita Prefecture. Recently, this clever kitty has mastered the art of opening the door to usher guests in with a warm welcome.

The inn assures travelers: “He’s not trying to escape – he just wants to give you a warm welcome!” You can meet Omochi at Aratama Ryokan in Japan’s famous hot spring town of Beppu.

Energetic Amanatsu – another Oita kitty

Tied for second place was Amanatsu, a charming tuxedo kitten from Kannawa Yunoka Ryokan, also in Beppu – another hot springs cat! Joining the inn last year at the age of one-month-old, Amanatsu’s boundless energy and love for snuggling on laps has won over travelers.  

Amanatsu is actually the inn’s fifth reception cat – she and the others can be found playing (and napping) in the inn’s designated Cat Room.

Big brother Shohsuke from Nagano

Also in second place is Shohsuke, who keeps a watchful eye over the feline staff at Kiriya Ryokan in Nozawa Onsen hot springs. (In fact, the top seven kitties are all from hot spring areas – what’s the connection?)

The inn has a total of ten tiny helpers ready to greet guests after they have a relaxing soak in the hot springs.

Feline fans, we hope this sparks some ideas for your next next trip to Japan. For the full ranking (and 17 more adorable cats), see Rakuten Travel’s page in Japanese.