Okinawa: Let’s play with cats and have lunch! at Ufuyaa
If you’re heading to Okinawa and love cats—and who doesn’t?—this tour combines adorable rescue cats with a delicious soba lunch at a cozy local spot on Sesoko Island. For just $17 per person, you get a laid-back experience that’s perfect for families, solo travelers, or anyone seeking a unique taste of Okinawan culture and compassion. The visit lasts around a couple of hours, and what makes it really special is the chance to interact with friendly rescue cats while tasting authentic Okinawa soba, a staple of the island’s cuisine.
Two things stand out for us: First, the warmth of the rescue cats—they’re calm, well-behaved, and clearly loved and cared for—making it an ideal first-time cat café visit. Second, the support for local animal welfare—1500 yen from your meal is donated directly to the Nyankuru Naisa shelter, helping cover their food and medical bills. The only caveat? If you’re not a cat person or allergic, this might not be your favorite stop, but for those seeking a genuine, heartfelt experience, it’s hard to beat.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a slice of Okinawa’s authentic hospitality, love animals, or are curious about local food and community efforts. It offers a peaceful, engaging break from sightseeing and an opportunity to support a good cause—all at a very reasonable price.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Combines a cat café with a local soba restaurant for a memorable visit.
- Supportive Mission: Your meal donation helps a rescue shelter, making your visit meaningful.
- Relaxed Atmosphere: Friendly, calm rescue cats provide a stress-free environment.
- Cultural Flavor: Savor authentic Okinawa soba with a rich broth, complemented by Okinawan tea and cold drinks.
- Family Friendly: Suitable for children and first-time café visitors.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
An Honest Look at Ufuyaa: Cats, Soba, and Community
When we first heard about this tour, we thought it sounded like a charming way to experience Okinawa beyond the beaches and waterfalls. What we found was a delightful combination of animal-friendly hospitality and local cuisine. The setting is simple but welcoming, with the atmosphere relaxed and unpretentious. The real star here is the rescue cats, each with their own calm demeanor, lounging or wandering freely.
The Cats: More Than Just Cute Faces
All the cats at Ufuyaa are rescue animals, which adds a heartwarming layer to the experience. They’re described as friendly and calm—ideal for first-time visitors or families with children. According to reviews, visitors love how the cats are well-adjusted and approachable. You’re encouraged to feed your favorite, take photos, or simply sit back and enjoy their company. This is a highlight for many, with one reviewer noting, “The cats are the most relaxed, friendly creatures, and it’s obvious they’re loved here.”
The Food: Authentic Okinawa Soba
The soba set menu is more than just a snack; it’s a taste of local culture. Expect a bowl of Okinawa soba with a rich, savory broth, paired with Okinawan tea and a cold drink. The soba noodles are handmade and freshly prepared, offering a heartwarming, comforting flavor that reflects Okinawa’s culinary traditions. At just 1700 yen (~$17), the meal’s quality and the fact that part of the proceeds go directly to the shelter make it a great value. Several reviews praise the soba as “delicious and authentic,” noting the broth’s deep, savory flavor.
Supporting a Cause
What sets this experience apart is that 1500 yen from your set menu is donated to the Nyankuru Naisa shelter. This means your visit directly supports the medical care and food supplies for rescue cats. We appreciated that the staff is transparent about this donation, and it gives your meal a little extra purpose. Many travelers find it rewarding to enjoy a meal knowing they’re helping animals in need.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Tips
The experience is operated in multiple languages—English, Chinese, Japanese, Traditional Chinese—which makes it accessible for international travelers. Booking is flexible; you can reserve your spot and pay later, and cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance without penalty. The group size tends to be small, creating an intimate and relaxed environment.
What to Keep in Mind
While the atmosphere is generally peaceful, if you’re allergic or wary of cats, this might not be the best choice. Also, since the visit is about interacting freely with the cats, it’s best to follow the staff’s guidelines to ensure the safety and comfort of both visitors and animals.
Why This Tour Works
This experience shines because it blends authentic Okinawan hospitality with a heartwarming cause. The scenery is simple, but the genuine friendliness of the cats and the staff makes it memorable. The delicious soba adds an extra layer of satisfaction, especially knowing that part of your payment benefits rescue cats. It’s a wonderful way to connect with local culture and contribute positively to the community.
For travelers seeking a relaxing, meaningful activity—especially animal lovers or families—this tour offers a refreshing change from typical sightseeing. It’s also a fantastic way to support local shelters while enjoying authentic Okinawa flavors.
FAQs
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s very family friendly. The cats are calm and gentle, making it a comfortable environment for kids.
Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended to secure your spot, but you can reserve and pay later.
Can I just visit the café without the meal?
The tour packages typically include the soba set, but it’s best to check if walk-in options are available.
Does the price include anything besides the meal?
Yes, it includes free time to interact with the cats, along with your Okinawa soba, Okinawan tea, and a cold drink.
How much of my payment goes to the cat shelter?
1500 yen from the set menu is donated directly to Nyankuru Naisa shelter—helping with food and medical care.
Are the cats friendly?
All rescue cats are described as friendly, calm, and suitable for first-time visitors.
What’s the best way to get there?
Details on transportation aren’t specified, but Sesoko Island is accessible, and the experience is designed for relaxed, informal visits.
Final Thoughts
For anyone wanting to combine culinary delights with animal rescue support in Okinawa, this tour offers a refreshing and authentic experience. It’s especially suited for families, animal lovers, or those seeking a peaceful break from more touristy activities. The focus on supporting rescue cats adds a genuine purpose, and the delicious soba makes it a true taste of Okinawa’s culinary culture.
While it’s a simple experience, what it lacks in grandeur it more than makes up for in heart. The chance to spend relaxed time with calm cats and enjoy a local meal truly captures the spirit of Okinawa—warm, welcoming, and community-oriented.
To sum it up, this tour is a wonderful way to experience a side of Okinawa that’s often overlooked—a community caring for rescue animals, and a cuisine that’s as comforting as it is delicious. It’s perfect for travelers who value authenticity, kindness, and good food. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, Ufuyaa offers a little slice of Okinawan warmth and compassion.
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