Choosing a Veterinarian in Japan

Japan has an excellent standard of veterinary care. Many clinics are modern, well-equipped, and some even offer 24/7 emergency services. While English is not universally spoken, clinics in major cities often have English-speaking staff or interpreters available.

Top Veterinary Clinics:

• Japan Animal Referral Medical Center (Tokyo) – Advanced diagnostics and specialists for serious conditions.
• Nihon University Animal Medical Center (Tokyo) – University hospital with research-based care and referrals.
• Yamate Veterinary Hospital (Yokohama) – English-friendly, general medicine and surgery.
• Kobe Animal Medical Center (Kansai region) – Offers 24-hour emergency care and specialty services.

👉 Tip: Register with a local vet soon after arrival to establish care and get assistance navigating required vaccines, especially if you plan to travel within Asia.

Emergency Veterinary Services

Emergency veterinary services are more common in larger cities. If your local clinic does not offer 24-hour care, ask them to recommend the nearest night-time or holiday emergency facility.

24/7 Options in Tokyo:

• Japan Pet Medical Center (Tokyo Meguro) – +81 3-3793-2100
• Nippon Animal Hospital (Tokyo Setagaya) – +81 3-3305-3921

Pet-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants

While indoor seating with pets is uncommon, Japan has a growing number of dog cafés (and even cat and hedgehog cafés!). Outdoor terraces and dedicated pet seating areas are more available in larger cities.

Pet-Friendly Spots:

• Puppy’s Dining Cafe (Tokyo) – Serves meals for both dogs and humans.
• Dog Dept Café (multiple cities) – A popular chain offering food, drinks, and dog merchandise.
• Bondi Cafe Hiroo (Tokyo) – Pet-friendly patio with a relaxed, Australian vibe.
• Green Dog Square (Kobe) – Café + vet + boutique in one space.

Some cafés even offer pet birthday cakes and photoshoots. Pets are often welcomed more warmly when they’re well-dressed and extremely well-behaved.

Dog Parks and Green Spaces

Urban living in Japan means limited yard space, but most neighborhoods make up for it with tidy sidewalks and access to pet-friendly green spaces. Dog parks are growing in popularity, especially in Tokyo and Osaka.

Popular Dog Parks:

• Yoyogi Park Dog Run (Tokyo) – Fenced areas for small and large dogs, with a permit system.
• Komazawa Olympic Park (Tokyo) – Spacious, clean, and friendly to dogs on-leash and off in designated zones.
• Odaiba Seaside Park (Tokyo) – Coastal views, long paths, and several pet-welcoming cafés nearby.
• Banpaku Park (Osaka) – Expansive green space with dog-friendly trails.

👉 Tip: Most dog parks require registration and proof of rabies vaccination and licensing. Check ahead and bring your paperwork.

Pet Laws & Etiquette

Respect for others is a cornerstone of Japanese culture, and that extends to pet ownership. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Leash laws: Dogs must be on a leash in all public places unless inside a designated off-leash dog run.
• Poop bags: Always carry cleanup supplies. Waste bins are rare, so be prepared to bring waste home.
• Licensing: Dogs must be registered at your local ward office (kuyakusho) and receive a rabies vaccine annually. You’ll get a numbered tag that should be worn on your dog’s collar.
• Cats: Cats don’t require registration but should still be vaccinated, microchipped, and ideally kept indoors or in enclosed balconies.

Pet Supply Stores

You’ll find pet supply stores everywhere from city centers to suburban train stations. Japan’s pet products range from practical to pampered (yes, dog kimonos are a thing!).

Popular Retailers:

• Pet’s One – Large chain often attached to hardware stores, offering food, grooming, and accessories.
• Jokers – Upscale pet stores with grooming salons, toys, and luxury items.
• Aeon Pet – Nationwide chain inside Aeon Malls, stocking major food brands and gear.
• Nishimatsuya (Baby & Pet section) – Budget-friendly source for basics like pee pads and cleaning supplies.
• Online shopping is widely used—Rakuten and Amazon Japan both carry major pet brands and deliver quickly.

Final Thoughts

Japan is a unique mix of discipline and delight when it comes to pets. Your dog might need to adjust to elevators and bustling sidewalks, but they'll also experience some of the cleanest parks, most attentive groomers, and most pampered pet services in the world.

Whether you're living in Tokyo or Takamatsu, Starwood is here to support your journey—every step of the way.

👉 Reach out to our team if you need help with future moves, local regulations, or planning your pet’s next adventure.