Many people have likely come across videos on YouTube, TikTok, and other social media platforms featuring a lively cat in Shinjuku, Japan. This Shinjuku 3D cat captivates visitors from around the world with its adorable appearance, leaving many curious about its location and how it was created. Don’t worry—we’ll answer all your questions right away.
About the Shinjuku 3D Cat
Following the Godzilla head in Kabukicho, the Shinjuku 3D cat has become another landmark drawing massive crowds. Since its debut in July 2021, it has remained a social media sensation, continuing to attract visitors from around the world.
How to Find the Giant 3D Cat Billboard in Shinjuku?
After arriving at Shinjuku Station via bullet train or subway, exit through the East Exit. Walk 10 meters to your right and you’ll see a staircase exit leading toward Kabukichō. Ascend these stairs to spot the billboard displayed at the intersection.
Alternatively, exit via the Central East Exit near the ticket gates, turn left, and walk 10 meters to find the same staircase leading to Kabukichō.
The Best Time to See the Shinjuku 3D Cat
According to the official Twitter account, the Shinjuku 3D cat appears every 15 minutes from 7:00 AM until 1:00 AM the following day. The cat’s pose changes depending on the viewing time. To stay updated on the cat’s schedule, follow the official Twitter account: Cross Shinjuku Vision, for the latest updates on the Shinjuku Cat schedule.
How to View the Shinjuku 3D Cat: Optimal Viewing Spots and Tips
For the best viewing or photography experience, location and timing are crucial.
First, position yourself as close as possible to the Shinjuku 3D billboard.
Second, prioritize shooting the screen during clear dusk or nighttime for superior results. Daylight can dilute the screen’s brightness, yielding less impressive photos.
Finally, consider the weather. Shinjuku experiences peak rainy seasons from mid-June to mid-July, and again in September and October. Typhoons frequently affect the area during September and October, increasing rainfall probability. Therefore, the optimal season for visiting is December through February, when rainfall is less likely.
Key Tips for Photographing the Shinjuku 3D Cat:
- Prioritize the dry season from December to February
- Opt for dusk or nighttime for shooting
- Position yourself as close as possible to the billboard
Why did Shinjuku install a giant cat?
Many may wonder why Shinjuku created a colossal cat. YUNIKA advertising sales manager Yoshitake Fujinuma explained that while multiple proposals were submitted, the most compelling was Omnibus Japan’s design featuring a sleeping cat. Moreover, since Shibuya and Ikebukuro already had their iconic mascots, Shinjuku sought to establish a similar landmark.
Beyond Billboards: The Cat’s Business Model and Future
The viral success of Shinjuku’s 3D cat drew massive crowds, boosting commercial value in the surrounding area. Capitalizing on the momentum, the company opened a themed café on the first floor of the same building and sells merchandise to generate additional revenue. Additionally, Cross Space plans to launch the “Cross Shinjuku Vision 2” project next year (2026), aiming to create a larger, more immersive viewing experience.
It is foreseeable that the cat will continue to generate significant commercial value for Cross Space in the future.
How to Create a Similar 3D Billboard?
If you wish to develop a large-scale 3D billboard that delivers sustained commercial value, consider partnering with JYLED—a company with extensive expertise in 3D billboard production. We have completed 120 large-scale and 230 small-scale 3D billboard projects across over 100 countries worldwide. For more details on 3D billboards, feel free to contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How large is the Shinjuku 3D Cat Screen?
According to official website information, the Shinjuku 3D cat screen measures 8.16 meters in height and 18.96 meters in width, with a total area of approximately 154 square meters.
What pixel pitch LED modules were used for the Shinjuku 3D Cat Screen?
This massive 3D LED screen utilizes 6mm LED modules, enabling visibility for pedestrians from a distance of 20 meters.
Is the cat displayed continuously?
No. The 3D cat is displayed from 7:00 AM to 1:00 AM, appearing every 15 minutes during this period. To view the cat, we recommend planning your visit accordingly.
Is there an admission fee to see the Shinjuku 3D Cat?
No. Like all viral photo spots online, the Shinjuku 3D Cat primarily aims to attract foot traffic and is free to view anytime.
Are there other famous 3D billboards in Shinjuku?
The 3D Cat is the only renowned 3D billboard in Shinjuku. Other 3D billboards are located in different areas such as Shibuya and Ikebukuro.
