Experience the Joys of Animal Companionship at the Panel Exhibition

A heartwarming panel exhibition featuring beloved picture books celebrating the companionship of cats and dogs will be held at Cafe de Take from February 9 to March 6, 2026. This special event marks the release of two illustrated books: _Kimi ga Iru Kara_ (Because You're Here) and _Kimi to no Sanpomichi_ (The Path with You). Visitors can enjoy mesmerizing illustrations and poetic contributions by celebrated authors Mina Kusaka and Mio Hashimoto, who beautifully capture the essence of everyday moments shared with our furry friends.

Exhibit Details

The exhibition will showcase panels displaying pages from the two featured books within the charming confines of Cafe de Take, located in the heart of Chuo City, Tokyo. In addition to enjoying delightful illustrations, attendees can purchase the books at the café. Notably, a portion of the royalties and sales from the book will be donated to animal welfare organizations and medical research institutions focused on treating liver diseases, as part of the authors' commitment to giving back.

In honor of February being a special month for pet lovers, highlighted by National Cat Day on February 22, the exhibition offers a serene atmosphere where guests can immerse themselves in Kusaka’s vibrant narratives and Hashimoto’s expressive visuals. Visitors can also indulge in special pet-themed latte art featuring both cats and dogs as they sip their beverages, adding a delightful twist to their café experience.

Location Information

Cafe de Take

- Address: 1-3-7 Shintomi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0041, Japan
- Phone: +81-3-3551-9588
- Instagram: Cafe de Take
- Opening Hours: Weekdays from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM
- Closed: Saturdays and Sundays, Public Holidays (Please check the café for potential changes)

Featured Books

_Kimi ga Iru Kara_ (Because You're Here)

- Author: Mina Kusaka
- Illustrator: Mio Hashimoto
- ISBN: 9784867165324
- Price: ¥1,650 (excluding tax)
- Release Date: March 6, 2024
- Synopsis: This book poetically conveys the bond between a person and their cat, illustrating how the presence of a furry companion can brighten even the darkest days.

_Kimi to no Sanpomichi_ (The Path with You)

- Author: Mina Kusaka
- Illustrator: Mio Hashimoto
- ISBN: 9784867168493
- Price: ¥1,650 (excluding tax)
- Release Date: October 3, 2025
- Synopsis: This book narrates a heartfelt journey of moving forward through the comfort and love experienced during walks with a cherished dog.

Author Insights

Mina Kusaka is an accomplished picture book author who resides in Tokyo with her rescue cats, Pino and Mona. Her works are deeply inspired by the love shared with animals, portraying relatable and touching life moments. Mio Hashimoto, an illustrator and sculptor based in Mie Prefecture, takes pride in representing animals with deep emotional resonance through her artwork. Both authors share a passion for animal welfare, which resonates throughout their work.

Conclusion

Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the warmth of animal companionship through art and literature. Whether you're an animal lover, a book enthusiast, or simply looking for a cozy space to enjoy a good read, the panel exhibition at Cafe de Take promises to be a cherished experience. Join us in celebrating the bond we share with our beloved pets while supporting a good cause!