Exciting Announcement: MOCHA Cat Cafe's 2026 Photo Contest Revealed!

MOCHA Cat Cafe Announces the Exciting 2026 Photo Contest

The beloved cat cafe chain, MOCHA, managed by Ripot Co., Ltd. and headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has officially announced the commencement of the "MOCHA Photo Contest 2026." From May 1 to May 31, 2026, participants from all over Japan will be invited to capture the most adorable moments featuring cats at any of MOCHA's 36 branches. The contest aims to showcase the joy of spending quality time with cats, encapsulated by the theme "Instinctively Capture the Cutest Cat Moments."

Special Judges

This year, the contest will feature notable figures as special judges. The renowned comedian Shou Kaga from the comedy duo Kagaya will bring his insightful photography experience to the table, while Nobuko from the trio Party-Chan, a devoted cat lover, will also lend her expertise. Contest winners can look forward to receiving lavish prizes, including cash rewards and personalized photo frames.

Contest Details and Prizes

Participants are encouraged to submit photographs taken within MOCHA cafes throughout the contest period. The ten selected winners and the recipients of other accolades will receive rewards, such as:

- Grand Prize (1 winner): A ¥30,000 Amazon gift card and an acrylic photo panel featuring the winning shot.
- Kagaya Prize (5 winners): A ¥10,000 Amazon gift card and a signed photo frame of the awarded image.
- Nobuko Prize (5 winners): A ¥10,000 Amazon gift card and a signed photo frame of the awarded image.
- Excellence Award (10 winners): MOCHA one-day passport usable on three different days.
- Honorable Mention (20 winners): MOCHA one-day passport for a single day’s entry.

How to Participate

To participate, individuals must follow the official MOCHA Instagram account, @catcafemocha, and post their best cat photographs using the hashtags #MOCHAPhotoContest2026 and #CatCafeMOCHA. Contestants must reside in Japan and have a public Instagram account to qualify. Moreover, multiple entries from a single participant are allowed, embracing the creativity of cat enthusiasts.

Guidelines and Eligibility

Entries must be original works showcasing personal and authentic experiences within the cafe. It’s emphasized that any submission found to replicate others' work or exhibit excessive alteration will be disqualified. The copyright of the submitted photographs remains with the participants; however, MOCHA reserves the right to utilize the images for promotional purposes without compensation to the entrants.

CEO Comment

Katsuji Morinaga, the President of Ripot Co., Ltd., expressed his aspirations for the contest, stating, "We wish all our customers to experience fulfilling moments with our beloved cats. This photo contest is an opportunity for them to showcase their cherished interactions, enhanced by professional feedback and recognition."

What Makes MOCHA Unique

MOCHA aims to create an inviting atmosphere where visitors can unwind and connect with cats. Facilities are designed for comfort, featuring Wi-Fi and power outlets for convenient use during work hours, alongside complimentary manga to enjoy. MOCHA not only allows guests a chance to interact with furry companions but also offers a peaceful space for conversations and relaxation.

Additionally, the cafes host two daily feeding sessions where patrons can capture the delightful scenes of cats enjoying their meals. With various breeds available, guests can explore their favorites while discovering the ideal feline companion. The overall experience aims to enrich visitors' time spent in the company of adorable cats.

About Ripot Co., Ltd.

Founded in 2015, Ripot Co., Ltd. opened its first MOCHA location in Ikebukuro, driven by a commitment to provide a unique experiential space for many. The company aspires to encourage special interactions among families, friends, and visitors from abroad. Today, cat cafes like MOCHA are celebrated as unique cultural hotspots in Japan, attracting international tourists and contributing to the inbound market. Moving forward, Ripot Co., Ltd. aims to expand not only domestically but also to reach global audiences enthusiastic about Japanese culture and feline companionship.