Held in the historic streets and stone alleys of Kagurazaka,
the Bake Neko Festival is a participatory celebration often described as a “Cat Halloween.” For this one special day, adults and children alike — regardless of age, nationality, gender, or background — become free-spirited cats and wander the city together.
Cats marching in parades.
Cats strolling through backstreets.
Cats taking photos.
Cats dancing.
Cats enjoying gourmet food.
Cats simply soaking in the atmosphere of the town… There is no single way to enjoy the festival.
Everyone who visits becomes both a resident of this Kingdom of Cats — and one of its stars. The Bake Neko Festival is a one-day cat kingdom created together by everyone who joins. With the entire town of Kagurazaka as its stage,
the festival creates a new kind of urban carnival where people, culture, and the city itself connect in playful and unexpected ways.
(Held annually since 2009)
At the Bake Neko Festival, the “Nekomachi Passport Badge” is bestowed as proof that you are a resident of the Kingdom of Cats. This passport is more than just a participation badge. “I Am a Cat.”
It is a playful declaration, and a symbol of joining the festival’s vision: by becoming cats, people can connect freely and create a kingdom together beyond borders and labels. Guests wearing the Nekomachi Passport Badge are invited to join the Bakeneko Parade.
For this one special day,titles, ages, nationalities, and boundaries disappear — and everyone becomes a free-spirited cat. With the entire town of Kagurazaka as the stage, enjoy your own unique “Day as a Cat” in whatever style you like.
Professional cat makeup by makeup artists.
※Not recommended for those with sensitive skin or cosmetic allergies.
(Elementary School Age & Under)
Authentic cat makeup services provided by professional artists.
※REAL cats are not allowed in the changing room.
You can change clothes and self makeup (facilities for men and women available). *Note: These are not private rooms.
Please be sure to keep your valuables with you at all times. While you may leave your belongings in Changing Room, we strongly recommend using the cloakroom.
We can store your luggage here.
Become a cat for a day and join the Bakeneko Festival's signature parade! Dress up in your favorite feline-inspired costume and parade through the charming streets of Kagurazaka in this unique cat-themed Halloween celebration.
An open-to-everyone, cat-themed version of Japan's traditional Awa Odori dance festival. No experience or registration needed—just jump in and dance! A one-of-a-kind feline celebration produced by super cat-loving choreographer Yoshihiro Fujita (CAT-A-TAC / CONDORS).
Oni Kenbai is a powerful traditional Nenbutsu folk dance passed down around Kitakami. Designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan and inscribed on UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, it is performed to drive away evil spirits and pray for abundant harvests. Dancers wield swords and fans, delivering dynamic and spirited performances.
Learn how to throw authentic ninja stars from a real ninja!
Rent a cat-themed kimono and enjoy professional dressing.
Explore Kagurazaka while collecting special cat stamps at seven locations.
A mini market for everyone transforming into cats! Find cat-themed bread, sweets, costume accessories, and enjoy a workshop where you can make your own cat mask.
Climb aboard the Bakeneko Car for a memorable photo and meet adorable cat characters for special photo opportunities.
The gathering place for cats.／Scratch Post Café／Glowing Cat Art Exhibition／Japanese Tea Ceremony Experience／Cat Accessory Workshop
A historic soba restaurant opens a special sweets café for one day only. Take a relaxing break with Cat Sobagaki Zenzai (buckwheat dumplings in sweet red bean soup) or Mitarashi Dango topped with a savory-sweet soba sauce.
Enjoy exciting street performances popping up throughout Kagurazaka.
kagurazaka misasakai
104 Yaraicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0805