The Grand Opening of ANELLA CAFE in Kusatsu-Ritto: A New Haven for Animal Lovers

ANELLA CAFE Expands to Shiga: A New Home for Animals and Community

The renowned ANELLA CAFE chain is set to make its 44th location debut in Kusatsu-Ritto, Shiga, with the grand opening scheduled for September 4, 2026. Known for merging human welfare with animal welfare, ANELLA Group, headquartered in Setagaya, Tokyo, focuses on creating a space where both people and animals can thrive together.

The new facility represents more than just a cafe; it’s envisioned as a comforting retreat from daily life, designed to foster meaningful connections between individuals and rescued dogs and cats. It aims to become a beloved gathering place, reinforcing its role as a safe haven for animals in need within the local community.

What is ANELLA CAFE?

The ANELLA CAFE concept goes beyond mere enjoyment of cute animals; it serves as both a cafe and a shelter for stray or abandoned animals, providing them with a secure environment. Visitors have the opportunity to interact with these pets in a dedicated space while helping them rebuild trust and find new families.

This particular cafe is strategically located in an area that combines excellent access to urban amenities with the charm of abundant nature, making it a perfect spot for casual visits after shopping or outings.

Inside, the cafe is adorned with the brand’s signature color, a calming shade known as “ANELLA Blue,” prominently displaying the lovable mascot, ANELLA-kun. The thoughtfully designed space ensures visitors can relax and enjoy their time with the furry residents, providing a sense of respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

A Unique Experience for Pet Lovers

The Kusatsu-Ritto location is designed to cater thoughtfully to both dog and cat lovers by maintaining separate zones – a dedicated dog area and a cat area. Each section is tailored to meet the comfort needs of its inhabitants, ensuring both the pets and the visitors can interact comfortably.

In the dog area, visitors can sit on low sofas, connecting at the pets' level, facilitating a cozy atmosphere for companionship. Meanwhile, the cat section features various playful elements, including cat trees and a running wheel, encouraging the playful spirit of cats while providing an engaging environment for both animals and their human counterparts.

For those who feel a connection to a specific animal and wish to adopt, a formal process can facilitate these adoptions, supported by staff to ensure a smooth transition for both the pet and the new owner. The goal is to create more joyous beginnings for these animals as they find loving homes.

Supporting Community and Individuals

Not only does the Kusatsu-Ritto location serve as a haven for animals, but it also functions as a workplace that supports individuals with disabilities through its Employment Assistance Program (Type B). Individuals in this program engage in caring for the animals, including food preparation, grooming, and maintaining cleanliness, thus nurturing both the animals’ well-being and their own personal growth.

This initiative reflects the therapeutic bond developed through animal contact, contributing to emotional stability for those involved. As individuals witness the positive changes in the animals they care for, they gain confidence and fulfillment in their work, illustrating the reciprocal support between humans and animals.

Special Opening Event

To celebrate the launch of the Kusatsu-Ritto shop, ANELLA CAFE will host a grand opening event offering free 30-minute entry from September 4 to September 6, allowing visitors to discover the heartwarming atmosphere of the cafe without any cost.

Comments from the CEO

Daiki Ito, the CEO of ANELLA Group, expressed his excitement over this significant milestone in expansion. He commented, “We are thrilled to open the first ANELLA CAFE in Shiga, a region endowed with splendid nature and a vibrant community. Our aspiration is to create a beloved place that supports both animals and people.”

In essence, the ANELLA CAFE in Kusatsu-Ritto aims to be more than just a coffee shop; it seeks to become a second home for its visitors—a warm and welcoming space that nurtures bonds between people and animals, promoting a cycle of mutual support.

Store Details

- Store Name: ANELLA CAFE Kusatsu-Ritto
- Location: 1F Shiga Chuo Building, 7-9-11 Kozaki, Ritto City, Shiga Prefecture
- Phone Number: 077-518-8122
- Operating Hours: Daily 12:00-18:00 (Weekdays) / 11:00-18:00 (Weekends and holidays)
- Entry Fee: 30-minute session for general: 1000 yen, children (elementary school): 500 yen, free for preschoolers.
- Discounts: Senior and Disabled Persons: 500 yen for a 30-minute session
- Website: ANELLA CAFE Kusatsu-Ritto
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