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Among the “Cat Islands” (Nekojima) scattered throughout Japan, “Ogijima” (Ogijima), floating in the Seto Inland Sea, possesses particularly unique charm. This island is not only home to friendly cats living leisurely but is also a stage for the world-renowned “Setouchi Triennale” art festival, with beautiful artworks scattered throughout.
This article provides a complete guide for international visitors who want to “enjoy both cats and art!” and “want to visit Ogijima on a day trip from Takamatsu!” We cover everything from the ferry timetable to how to explore the island and recommended spots, so you can embark on your trip to Ogijima with confidence. Let’s set off on a healing and moving journey to the island of art and cats!
Contents
What is Ogijima? A Paradise of Cats and Art Floating in the Seto Inland Sea
Ogijima is a small island located off the coast of Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture. It is a thriving fishing island, characterized by its unique landscape of houses densely packed on steep slopes, forming a “labyrinth of alleys.” In recent years, it has become known as a “Cat Island” due to its large cat population. It is also one of the venues for the “Setouchi Triennale,” an art festival held every three years, with permanent art installations scattered throughout the island.
Collaboration of Art and Cats: Artworks blending into beautiful nature, and cats living alongside them.
Labyrinthine Alleys: Unique scenery created by houses on steep slopes and narrow alleys. Offers a sense of adventure.
Spectacular Views of the Seto Inland Sea: Enjoy the serene beauty of countless islands in the Seto Inland Sea from the island.
Easy Access from Takamatsu: Approx. 40-minute ferry ride from Takamatsu Port, making it perfect for a day trip.
Access to Ogijima: Ferry Guide from Takamatsu Port
To get to Ogijima, it is generally most common to take a ferry from “Takamatsu Port” in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture. Takamatsu Port is within walking distance from JR Takamatsu Station and Kotoden Takamatsu-Chikko Station, and easily accessible from other major cities by Shinkansen or JR.
Access to Takamatsu Port
- From JR Takamatsu Station / Kotoden Takamatsu-Chikko Station: Approx. 5-10 minutes walk to Takamatsu Port (Daiichi Ukihashibashi).
- From Okayama Station: Approx. 1 hour by JR Seto-Ohashi Line to JR Takamatsu Station.
- From Osaka / Kobe: Approx. 1 hour by Shinkansen to Okayama Station, then approx. 1 hour by JR Seto-Ohashi Line to JR Takamatsu Station.
Ogijima Ferry “Meon” Timetable and Fares
The “Meon” ferry operates from Takamatsu Port to Ogijima. When planning a day trip, be sure to check the round-trip times carefully.
| Departure from Takamatsu Port → Arrival at Ogijima | Departure from Ogijima → Arrival at Takamatsu Port |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM Depart → 8:40 AM Arrive | 8:50 AM Depart → 9:30 AM Arrive |
| 10:00 AM Depart → 10:40 AM Arrive | 11:00 AM Depart → 11:40 AM Arrive |
| 12:00 PM Depart → 12:40 PM Arrive | 1:00 PM Depart → 1:40 PM Arrive |
| 2:00 PM Depart → 2:40 PM Arrive | 3:00 PM Depart → 3:40 PM Arrive |
| 4:00 PM Depart → 4:40 PM Arrive | 5:00 PM Depart → 5:40 PM Arrive |
| 5:00 PM Depart → 5:40 PM Arrive | 6:00 PM Depart → 6:40 PM Arrive |
※The above is the regular timetable. The number of services and times may change depending on the season and period. Please be sure to check the latest information on the official website of Ogijima Information Center (https://www.my-kagawa.jp/en/) or the ferry operating company’s website in advance.
Fares (one way): Adults ¥510, Children ¥260 (Additional fees for bringing bicycles)
About Ferry Tickets: Ferry tickets can be purchased at the ticket office at Takamatsu Port on the day of departure. Advance reservations are not required, but it can be crowded during peak season, so arrive early.
Access by Car: Ogijima does not have facilities to load vehicles onto the ferry, so you cannot bring your own car or rental car directly. Please use paid parking lots around Takamatsu Port.
Enjoy Art and Cats! Recommended Ogijima Model Course (Day Trip)
Ogijima is an island where you can take a leisurely stroll. Here is a recommended day-trip model course for exploring cats and art, timed with the ferry arrivals.
Morning: Encounters with Artworks and Cats Around Ogimachi Port
- Ogijima’s Soul: An iconic artwork of Ogijima, located right in front of you as you get off the ferry. It’s a beautiful glass building that reflects light.
- Exploring Alleyways and Cat Spotting: Head up the slope from the port into the labyrinthine alleys. You can encounter cats almost anywhere on the island. Walk through the residential areas and look for hidden artworks and cats.
- Toyotamahime Shrine: Further up the slope, you’ll find a shrine cherished as the island’s guardian deity. You can also enjoy views of the Seto Inland Sea from the shrine grounds.
Walking Shoes Essential: Ogijima has many steep slopes, so wear comfortable walking shoes like sneakers.
Stay Hydrated: Especially in summer, some areas have few vending machines, so we recommend bringing your own drinks.
Lunch: Break and Lunch at an Island Cafe
If you get tired from exploring the island, take a break at a cafe near the port. There are stylish cafes renovated from old traditional houses and diners serving dishes made with local ingredients.
- Shima Shokudo (Island Diner): A restaurant offering set meals and local dishes made with local ingredients.
- danken coffee: A cafe where you can enjoy coffee while overlooking the sea.
Afternoon: Enjoy Ogijima Lighthouse and the Island’s Nature
- Ogijima Lighthouse: Located at the northern tip of the island, about 20-30 minutes walk from Ogima Port. The beautiful lighthouse and blue sea create an excellent photo spot. You can also enjoy abundant natural scenery along the way.
- Artworks around the Lighthouse: Several artworks are also installed around the lighthouse park.
- Reunion with Cats: On your way back to the port, cats will be waiting for you in various places.
Manners and Precautions When Visiting Ogijima [For Both Cats and Humans]
Ogijima is a special place where cats and islanders coexist. By observing proper manners, visitors help maintain a safe environment for cats and ensure the island remains a sustainable tourist destination. Please keep the following points in mind when visiting.
Feeding: Generally, feeding cats is prohibited. Disorderly feeding can harm the cats’ health or lead to environmental degradation on the island. If feeding is permitted, follow the designated locations and methods.
Excessive Contact: Avoid forcing contact with cats, chasing them, or picking them up. Cats can get stressed. If a cat approaches you, gently pet it.
Take Your Trash Home: There are almost no trash cans on the island. Take everything you bring with you back home. Especially do not discard anything that cats might accidentally ingest.
Spend Time Quietly: Avoid shouting or making noise; enjoy the cats and the island’s atmosphere quietly. Remember that it is also the islanders’ home.
No Pets Other Than Cats: On cat islands, bringing pets other than cats (such as dogs) is strictly prohibited to protect the cat ecosystem and the island’s environment.
Check Ferry Operation Information: Access to Ogijima is solely by ferry. Services may be canceled due to weather or sea conditions, so always check the latest operation information in advance.
Prior Preparation: Many islands have few restaurants, shops, or vending machines. We strongly recommend preparing drinks and snacks in advance.
MAP: Ogijima, the Island of Art and Cats
*The map indicates the approximate locations of Ogijima and its main spots. For precise port locations and detailed island information, please check the island’s official information.
Day Trip from Takamatsu! Create Your Own Special Memories on Ogijima
Easily accessible from Takamatsu, Ogijima is a rare gem in Japan, where the beautiful nature of the Seto Inland Sea, heartwarming cats, and stimulating art converge. Strolling through its labyrinthine alleys, enjoying interactions with cats, and being moved by art installations will surely become unforgettable memories of your trip.
Using this guide as a reference, why not plan a day trip from Takamatsu to Ogijima and discover your own special healing and moving experience? Ogijima awaits you!
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