Okinawa : Let’s play with cats and have lunch! at Ufuyaa

Exploring Okinawa with Ufuyaa: A Unique Mix of Cats and Cuisine

If you’re visiting Okinawa and want an experience that combines local flavors with a heartfelt animal rescue effort, then the “Let’s play with cats and have lunch” tour at Ufuyaa on Sesoko Island is worth considering. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the details reveal a thoughtfully curated experience that balances fun, authenticity, and social impact.

What really draws us in are the chance to interact with friendly rescue cats in a relaxed setting, the opportunity to taste authentic Okinawa soba, and the fact that your meal helps fund animal welfare. A possible challenge might be the limited duration—this is a short, casual visit, so those seeking a full-day adventure might want to look for additional activities.

Ideal for families, first-time visitors, or animal lovers, this tour combines a caring atmosphere with local culinary delights, making for a memorable way to spend part of your Okinawa trip.

Key Points

• Support a good cause: 1500 yen of your set menu goes directly to a local cat shelter.
• Authentic Okinawa soba: Enjoy a flavorful, rich broth version of this local specialty.
• Family-friendly: The rescue cats’ friendly and calm nature makes it suitable for children.
• Relaxed vibe: The café offers a laid-back environment perfect for unwinding.
• Photo opportunities: Capture adorable moments with rescue cats.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes the Ufuyaa Experience Special

The Ufuyaa tour centers around a visit to a combined cat café and soba restaurant in Sesoko Island, a tranquil spot that promises a mix of good food, cute cats, and social good. From the moment you step in, you’re greeted with an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxed interaction, whether you’re feeding a feline friend or snapping photos of their playful antics.

The highlight is without doubt the friendly rescue cats. All of them are known for their calm, approachable demeanor, making the experience particularly suitable for first-time cat café visitors or families with children. As one reviewer noted, “All the cats are rescue cats with friendly and calm personalities,” which really underscores how well-behaved and welcoming they are.

While you enjoy your meal, you’re also supporting a local charity, Nyankuru Naisa, which cares for these cats. The set menu includes Okinawa soba with a rich broth, Okinawan tea, and a cold drink. The value here isn’t just in the delicious food but also in the fact that 1500 yen from your meal is donated to the shelter, directly helping with the cats’ food and medical expenses.

The Itinerary and Experience Breakdown

Arrival and Introduction

Most visitors will find this experience runs smoothly in terms of timing and logistics. You’ll likely arrive at the cozy Ufuyaa café, where a friendly staff greets you and provides a brief overview of the shelter and the meal options. The environment is peaceful, with a laid-back vibe that encourages you to unwind and enjoy your surroundings.

Interacting with the Cats

Once inside, the real charm begins. You’re free to wander around, feed your favorite feline, or take photos. The cats are well-loved residents of the shelter, and their calm nature means you won’t feel overwhelmed or pressed for time. Several reviews mentioned how “adorable” and “friendly” the cats are, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

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Dining on Okinawa Soba

The soba set meal is served in a traditional style, with a hearty broth that captures the essence of Okinawan cuisine. Many reviewers praise the flavorful broth and well-prepared noodles, describing it as a perfect comfort food after playing with the cats. The inclusion of Okinawan tea and a cold drink complements the meal nicely, making it a refreshing and satisfying experience.

Supporting the Shelter

What elevates this tour from a simple café visit is the chance to contribute directly to animal welfare. The donation of 1500 yen from your meal ensures that the shelter can continue caring for rescue cats. Several visitors appreciated this aspect, noting how “it felt good to enjoy a delicious meal while supporting a good cause.”

Additional Comforts

The entire experience is designed to be flexible. With options to reserve and pay later, you can plan your visit around your schedule. Plus, the group size tends to be small, creating an intimate environment that enhances interaction and comfort.

The Practical Details

Pricing is very reasonable at around $17 per person, especially considering the included meal and the social good aspect. The donation makes this a meaningful choice for those seeking authentic local experiences that also have a positive impact.

Timing is flexible—most sessions last about an hour, giving enough time to interact with the cats and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed. Since all the cats are rescue animals with friendly personalities, the environment is welcoming and calm.

Languages spoken include Chinese, English, Traditional Chinese, and Japanese, easing communication for international visitors.

Reservation can be made easily online, with a “book now, pay later” option. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind in planning.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This experience offers more than just a meal or a cute photo opportunity. It provides a chance to support animal rescue efforts while indulging in authentic Okinawa soba—a culinary treat known for its rich, savory broth and hearty noodles.

The relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for families or those seeking a low-key, meaningful activity. Plus, the social impact—knowing a portion of your payment goes directly to help rescue cats—adds an extra layer of satisfaction.

While it’s a brief experience, the memories you make here—feeding friendly cats, snapping adorable photos, savoring local flavors—are genuine and heartfelt. It’s a lovely way to connect with Okinawa’s community and its caring spirit.

Final Thoughts

For travelers wanting a charming, authentic experience that combines local cuisine with heartfelt animal welfare, Ufuyaa’s “Let’s play with cats and have lunch” is a smart choice. It’s ideal if you enjoy casual, social activities and want a meaningful story to tell.

The price point is fair considering the quality of food and the opportunity to make a difference. The environment is welcoming, and the rescue cats’ friendly personalities make it suitable for all ages.

If you’re after a fun, relaxed way to spend part of your Okinawa trip with cute cats and delicious soba, this experience checks all the boxes. Its combination of community support, authentic flavors, and adorable animals makes it a memorable little adventure.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children? Yes, the cats are friendly and calm, making it perfect for families with kids who enjoy animals.

How long does the experience last? Most visits last about an hour, providing enough time for interaction, photos, and enjoying your meal without feeling rushed.

Can I book in advance? Yes, reservations can be made online with a flexible “pay later” option, and you can cancel up to 24 hours ahead.

What is included in the meal? The set menu includes Okinawa soba with a rich broth, Okinawan tea, and a cold drink.

Does my meal help the cats? Absolutely, 1500 yen from the set menu is donated directly to the Nyankuru Naisa shelter, supporting the rescue cats’ food and medical needs.

Are there any language barriers? The experience provider offers services in Chinese, English, Traditional Chinese, and Japanese, making communication straightforward.

Is the food authentic Okinawa soba? Yes, the soba served is made with a flavorful broth that captures the essence of Okinawa cuisine.

Where is Ufuyaa located? It’s situated on Sesoko Island, a peaceful spot perfect for a laid-back visit.

Can the experience accommodate dietary restrictions? While not specifically mentioned, it’s best to inquire directly when booking to clarify any special needs.

Overall, this tour is a heartwarming blend of local food and animal kindness. It’s perfect for those wanting a genuine, meaningful experience in Okinawa that leaves both your taste buds and your heart happy.

You can check availability for your dates here: