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In recent years, “Nekojima” (Cat Island) has been introduced on overseas social media and in foreign media, drawing attention as a little-known tourist spot in Japan. While the number of international visitors who want to “visit a cat island!” is increasing, many may wonder, “Which island should I choose?” or “How do I get there?”
This article thoroughly compares and introduces 5 popular cat islands scattered throughout Japan, especially recommended for international visitors. It’s a complete guide that details each island’s “access difficulty,” “cat population and characteristics,” and “island atmosphere” to help you find the perfect cat island for you. Let’s embark on a healing and moving cat island tour that cat lovers won’t want to miss!
Contents
What is Nekojima? Japan’s Unique Islands Where Cats and Humans Coexist
Nekojima literally means “an island where many cats live.” Most of these are islands where fishing thrives, and cats were originally kept to protect fishing nets and crops from rats. The islanders have a history of cherishing cats, and now there are even islands where the number of cats is greater than the number of human residents. The cats are accustomed to people, and you can see them relaxing or playing right beside tourists.
A paradise for cat lovers: Enjoy interaction with friendly cats to your heart’s content.
Relaxed island time: Forget the urban hustle and spend a healing time.
Photogenic scenery: The combination of cats and beautiful nature is perfect for social media.
Unique local characteristics shine: Enjoy each island’s features, such as art islands or fishing islands.
Quick Comparison Table: Find Your Perfect Cat Island!
We’ve compared 5 popular cat islands across Japan on key points. Choose the best island according to your travel purpose and length of stay.
| Island Name | Location (Prefecture) | Cat Population/Characteristics | Access Difficulty | Features/Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tashirojima | Miyagi Prefecture | Features a cat shrine dedicated to the “Cat God,” the original cat island. | Medium to High (Day trip from Sendai is possible, but takes some time) | Manga sacred place. Simple atmosphere typical of a fishing island. |
| Ainoshima | Fukuoka Prefecture | Selected by CNN as one of the “World’s 6 Best Cat Spots.” | Low (Easy day trip from Fukuoka City) | Fishing village island close to the city. Cats are friendly. |
| Ogijima | Kagawa Prefecture | Artworks and cats coexist. | Medium (Day trip from Takamatsu is possible) | Beautiful Seto Inland Sea scenery and art island. |
| Sanagijima | Kagawa Prefecture | Famous for “flying cat” photos. They jump with cat toys! | Medium to High (Boat from Tadotsu, but few services) | Photogenic island with quiet and calm time flowing. |
| Aoshima | Ehime Prefecture | Said to have over 10 times more cats than residents. | High (Very few boat services) | For ultimate cat lovers. A natural and quiet island. |
Thorough Explanation of Japan’s 5 Cat Islands!
1. Tashirojima – The Original Cat Island in Miyagi Prefecture Protected by the “Cat God”
Located in Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture, in the Tohoku region, Tashirojima is known as a “sacred place for cats” due to the presence of a cat shrine dedicated to the “Cat God.” With more cats than residents, it is truly an island where “cats are the main characters.” The island also features “Manga Island,” where manga artists exhibit cat-themed works, making it an irresistible spot for cat lovers.
Access:
- From Tokyo Station by JR to “Sendai Station” (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by Tohoku Shinkansen).
- From Sendai Station by JR to “Ishinomaki Station” (approx. 1 hour 20 minutes).
- From Ishinomaki Station by bus or taxi to “Chuo Port.”
- From Chuo Port by “Ajishima Line” ferry to “Odomari Port” or “Nitoda Port” (approx. 45-60 minutes).
Important Notes: Ferry services are very infrequent, so be sure to check the timetable in advance. Day trips are possible, but accommodation options are limited. There are almost no restaurants or convenience stores on the island. Bringing pets other than cats is prohibited.
2. Ainoshima – Fukuoka Prefecture, Selected by CNN as one of the “World’s 6 Best Cat Spots”
Located in Shingu Town, Fukuoka Prefecture, in the Kyushu region, Ainoshima became globally famous after being selected by CNN as one of the “World’s 6 Best Cat Spots.” Its appeal lies in its easy accessibility for a day trip from Fukuoka City, allowing you to enjoy the scenery of a fishing village close to the city and interact with friendly cats. The sight of cats relaxing everywhere in the fishing port is truly picturesque.
Access:
- From JR Hakata Station by JR to “Shingu-Chuo Station” (approx. 15 minutes).
- From Shingu-Chuo Station by bus to “Shingu Port” (approx. 10 minutes).
- From Shingu Port by “Shingu” ferry to “Ainoshima” (approx. 17 minutes).
Important Notes: Ferry services are infrequent, so be sure to check the timetable. There are almost no restaurants or convenience stores on the island. Bringing pets other than cats is prohibited.
3. Ogijima – Kagawa Prefecture, a Beautiful Seto Inland Sea Island Where Art and Cats Coexist
Located in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, in the Shikoku region, Ogijima is known as an “art island” as one of the venues for the Setouchi Triennale. As you walk through the labyrinthine village, artworks are scattered everywhere, and cats live leisurely, blending into the scenery. The unique landscape woven by art, nature, and cats is its charm.
Access:
- From JR Takamatsu Station walk to “Takamatsu Port.”
- From Takamatsu Port by “Meon” ferry to “Ogijima” (approx. 40 minutes).
Important Notes: Ferry services are infrequent, so be sure to check the timetable. The island has many slopes, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Bringing pets other than cats is prohibited.
4. Sanagijima – Kagawa Prefecture, a Photogenic Cat Island Famous for “Flying Cats”
Located in Tadotsu Town, Kagawa Prefecture, in the Shikoku region, Sanagijima became globally famous for its “flying cat” photos. When you wave a cat toy, the cats perform dynamic jumps, making it a popular photogenic spot among photographers and cat lovers. Why not visit this quiet and calm island and capture your own miraculous shot?
Access:
- From JR Okayama Station by JR to “Tadotsu Station” (approx. 1 hour 20 minutes by JR Seto-Ohashi Line).
- From Tadotsu Station walk to “Tadotsu Port.”
- From Tadotsu Port by “Sanyo Kisen” ferry to “Sanagijima” (approx. 50 minutes).
Important Notes: Ferry services are very infrequent, so be sure to check the timetable in advance. There are almost no restaurants or accommodation facilities on the island. Bringing pets other than cats is prohibited.
5. Aoshima – Ehime Prefecture, for the Ultimate Cat Lover! The Cat Island with the Most Cats
Located in Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, in the Shikoku region, Aoshima is truly a cat paradise, with the number of cats said to be more than 10 times the number of residents. There are almost no attractions on the island other than cats, making it truly a destination for ultimate cat lovers whose sole purpose is “interacting with cats.” Although access is the most difficult, it offers an overwhelming cat density that cannot be experienced on other islands.
Access:
- From JR Matsuyama Station by JR to “Iyo-Nagahama Station” (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes).
- From Iyo-Nagahama Station walk to “Nagahama Port.”
- From Nagahama Port by “Aoshima” ferry to “Aoshima” (approx. 35 minutes).
Important Notes: Ferry services are very infrequent, and cancellations due to rough weather are common, so prior information gathering and weather checking are essential. There are no accommodation facilities, restaurants, or shops whatsoever on the island. Be sure to bring your own drinks and snacks. Bringing pets other than cats is prohibited.
Manners and Precautions When Visiting Cat Islands [For Both Cats and Humans]
Cat islands are special places where cats and islanders coexist. By observing proper manners, visitors help maintain a safe environment for cats and ensure the islands remain sustainable tourist destinations. Please keep the following points in mind when visiting.
Feeding: Generally, feeding cats is prohibited. Disorderly feeding by tourists can harm the cats’ health or lead to environmental degradation on the island. If feeding is permitted on an island, 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 islands. 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 Boat Operation Information: Access to cat islands is solely by boat. 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: 5 Recommended Cat Islands in Japan
*The map indicates the approximate locations of each cat island. For precise port locations and detailed island information, please check each island’s official information.
Find the Perfect Cat Island for You and Embark on a Healing Journey!
Throughout Japan, there are cat islands with their unique charms. Cats blending into the landscape of historic fishing villages, creative islands where art and cats coexist, and ultimate cat paradises where cats vastly outnumber humans… Each island will surely provide visitors with unforgettable healing and emotional experiences.
Using this article as a reference, why not find the perfect cat island for your travel style and desired healing, and plan a special trip to experience the profound charm of Japan? Wonderful encounters with cats await you!
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