Japan's 'anti-loneliness' cafe goes viral

At Tokyo's Moomin House Cafe, lone patrons are seated with a plush toy for company. The cafe has seen a surge in visitors since its "anti-loneliness" concept went viral

To save its lone customers from the awkward perils of solo dining, the cafe kindly seats diners with stuffed animal companions called Moomins, a family of white hippo-like characters created by Finnish illustrator and writer Tove Jansson.

Moomins are brought to each table so that patrons -- solo or in groups -- can have a turn sitting with them.

Weekday mornings are the quietest time, while weekends are packed all day long.