Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on May 2014

With Tokyo one of the most populated metropolitan areas in the world, it’s easy to assume that life with a pet here would be difficult—if not impossible, particularly if you want a dog. Small apartments, limited green space and very few places to run top the list of general concerns. However, a growing love of animal companions in the Japanese community means that with a few minor adjustments you can make life with a pet in the metropolis enjoyable, easy and exciting.

One of the first things that makes Tokyo a great place to live with canines is its walkability. With generally sporadic traffic, the small streets make it easy to wander through and explore your neighborhood with your dog—and it doesn’t take them long to adjust to a new walking routine.t life with a pet here would be difficult—if not impossible, particularly if you want a dog. Small apartments, limited green space and very few places to run top the list of general concerns. However, a growing love of animal companions in the Japanese community means that with a few minor adjustments you can make life with a pet in the metropolis enjoyable, easy and exciting.

There’s an off-leash area in Yoyogi Park where you can give your pet some freedom to run. Dogs are also quite common along the Tama River in Setagaya-ku, where many Tokyoites socialize while their pets play. Inokashira Park, in Kichijoji, with its beautiful shrine, ponds and trees offers an additional spot to roam.

Another perk for animals in Tokyo is the accessibility of transportation. If you have your own car, of course, it’s easy to get anywhere with the dogs in the back. But even if you don’t have wheels, small animals can be taken on the train as long as they’re in a bag or covered stroller—and almost all taxis will pick you up with a medium to large dog as long as you have him or her sit on the floor while driving.

Having a pet in Tokyo can also help ease the stress of meeting new people—especially if you’re not that good with the lingo. It’s a breeze to make friends and get into conversations when you’re out walking your dog. People tend to socialize around animals, and for those who want to practice Japanese, it’s a great way to get into light conversations.

Although it may not seem so on the surface, this city offers plenty of areas to go with animals. Most restaurants and cafés with a patio will allow you to sit outside with your pet, and people are often excited to stop and say “hi.” Any non-gated park will offer multiple benches where you can sit with a book or your daily newspaper with your pet at your side. In general, we find you can take your pet to quite a few more places than you would imagine. All you need to do is ask.