The most unique feature of Shoraku Ryokan is the dedicated “cat flap” installed in every guest room door.

Unlock the flap, and the inn’s free-roaming house cats may decide to pay you a visit. If you’re lucky, you might even have a snuggle buddy under your futon or a purring companion curled up at your feet.

This inn offers a dreamy experience that feels like “living with cats.”

A Manga Paradise with Over 5,000 Comics… and Cats!

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The corridors and shared spaces of the inn double as playgrounds for the resident cats.

Extensive Manga Library: Over 5,000 manga volumes line the halls, and guests are welcome to read them freely during their stay.

Cat-Friendly Facilities: The lobby features transparent walkways where you can admire adorable paw pads from below, plus a massive cat tower.

Despite the number of cats, the inn is kept impeccably clean, and many guests are surprised to find there’s no noticeable animal odor at all.

Dinner Recommendation: Hearty Chinese Takeout

The classic way to enjoy your evening at Shoraku Ryokan is with dinner delivered from the popular nearby Chinese restaurant Renka (蓮花).

Relax in a Retro Showa-Style Rock Bath

The bath is a spacious, authentic rock-style bath with a classic Showa-era charm. It’s perfect for soothing away travel fatigue.

Cats sometimes patrol even near the dressing room, so you may feel their presence all the way through your stay.

Booking Tips & Access Info

Final Thoughts

Shoraku Ryokan in Ozu, Ehime, may not be a luxurious hotel—but it is a true sanctuary for cat lovers.

Sleep beside cats, wake up with them nearby, read manga all day…

It’s a whimsical escape from everyday life that you absolutely must experience at least once.

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!

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.

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.

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).

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).

https://jatrabridge.com/2019/08/07/1792/a-cat-island-ai-no-shima-in-ashiya-gun-fukuoka-4/

https://jatrabridge.com/2019/08/06/1770/cat-island-ai-no-shima-with-a-day-trip-from-hakata/

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).

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).

https://jatrabridge.com/2020/06/11/5569/flying-cats-in-sanagijima-island-cat-island-in-kagawa/

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).

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.

https://jatrabridge.com/2025/04/13/13340/read-before-you-go-7-essential-etiquette-rules-and-must-haves-for-visiting-a-japanese-cat-island-complete-guide/

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!

https://jatrabridge.com/2020/07/01/5681/cats-in-iwaijima-isaland-yamaguchi-prefecture/

https://jatrabridge.com/2020/06/13/5571/cats-on-manabeshima-island-cat-island-in-okayama/

https://jatrabridge.com/2020/06/04/5517/lets-try-cat-photography-on-sakushima-island/

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!

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.

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.

※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.

https://meon.co.jp/access

Fares (one way): Adults ¥510, Children ¥260 (Additional fees for bringing bicycles)

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.

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.

https://jatrabridge.com/2025/04/13/13340/read-before-you-go-7-essential-etiquette-rules-and-must-haves-for-visiting-a-japanese-cat-island-complete-guide/

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!

https://jatrabridge.com/2025/04/19/13216/complete-guide-japans-5-must-visit-cat-islands-thorough-comparison-of-access-cat-population-and-precautions/

This article introduces 2 popular “cat spots” that you can easily visit on a day trip from the major cities of Tokyo and Fukuoka, for those who “want to see cats but have time or access constraints.” While they might deviate slightly from the strict definition of a “cat island,” these are places where you can encounter many friendly cats and spend a healing time away from the urban hustle. Find your perfect “weekend cat stroll” and enjoy wonderful encounters with Japan’s cats!

What is a Cat Spot? Japan’s Healing Spaces Where You Can Easily Interact with Cats

“Cat spot” refers to a place that may not be a large-scale cat habitat like a cat island, but is relatively easy to access from urban areas and where you can encounter many friendly cats. Cats gather and live in shrines, parks, or corners of tourist areas, allowing visitors to spend a relaxing time easily.

Day Trip OK from Tokyo & Fukuoka! 2 Easily Accessible “Cat Spots”

1. Enoshima – Day Trip from Tokyo! Shonan’s Sea and Cat Paradise

Enoshima, located in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a popular tourist destination about an hour by train from Tokyo. The entire island is also known as a power spot, offering stunning views of the sea and observation deck, Enoshima Shrine, and many other attractions. And complementing this island are numerous cats. As you walk around the island, you can see cats leisurely napping or charming tourists everywhere. You have many chances to encounter cats particularly around “Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden” and “Enoshima Sea Candle.”

Access:

• From Shinjuku Station: Approx. 60 minutes by Odakyu Line Rapid Express to “Fujisawa Station,” then transfer to Enoden and ride for approx. 10 minutes to “Enoshima Station.”
• From Tokyo Station: Approx. 50 minutes by JR Tokaido Main Line to “Fujisawa Station,” then transfer to Enoden and ride for approx. 10 minutes to “Enoshima Station.”
• From Enoshima Station to Enoshima, walk across the bridge.

2. Ainoshima – Day Trip from Fukuoka! CNN-Praised “Cat Paradise”

image by https://zoomingjapan.com/travel/ainoshima-cat-island-japan/

Ainoshima, located in Shingu Town, Fukuoka Prefecture, in the Kyushu region, became globally famous after being selected by CNN as one of the “World’s 6 Best Cat Spots.” Its biggest appeal is its easy accessibility for a day trip from Fukuoka City (Hakata), 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. Despite being an isolated island, its good accessibility makes it perfect for a “cat island debut.”

https://jatrabridge.com/2019/08/07/1792/a-cat-island-ai-no-shima-in-ashiya-gun-fukuoka-4/

https://jatrabridge.com/2019/08/06/1770/cat-island-ai-no-shima-with-a-day-trip-from-hakata/

Access:

• From JR Hakata Station: Approx. 15 minutes by JR to “Shingu-Chuo Station.”
• From Shingu-Chuo Station by bus to “Shingu Port” (approx. 10 minutes).
• From Shingu Port by “Shingu” ferry to “Ainoshima” (approx. 17 minutes).

Manners and Precautions When Visiting Cat Spots [For Both Cats and Humans]

Cat spots are special places where cats and local residents coexist. By observing proper manners, visitors help maintain a safe environment for cats and ensure the area remains a sustainable tourist destination. Please keep the following points in mind when visiting.

https://jatrabridge.com/2025/04/13/13340/read-before-you-go-7-essential-etiquette-rules-and-must-haves-for-visiting-a-japanese-cat-island-complete-guide/

MAP: Cat Spots in Tokyo & Fukuoka

*The map indicates the approximate locations of each cat spot. For precise port/station locations and detailed information, please check each spot’s official information.

Experience Your Own Healing at Easily Accessible Cat Spots!

Enoshima and Ainoshima, easily accessible on a day trip from urban centers, are perfect cat spots for those who want to enjoy interacting with Japan’s cats even amidst a busy travel schedule. Warm interactions with cats amidst beautiful scenery will surely heal your heart and become unforgettable travel memories.

Using this article as a reference, why not find the perfect cat spot for you and embark on a weekend “cat stroll”?

https://jatrabridge.com/2025/04/19/13216/complete-guide-japans-5-must-visit-cat-islands-thorough-comparison-of-access-cat-population-and-precautions/

To protect the environment where cats can live safely and to respect the lives of the islanders, it is extremely important for us visitors to know and observe the correct manners and etiquette. This article provides a comprehensive explanation of the 7 essential etiquette rules you must know before visiting and the must-have items to bring, to ensure your trip to a cat island is fun, safe, and memorable for both cats and humans. Please read on to help make your wonderful encounters with cats a reality!

Why are Manners Important When Visiting a Cat Island? [For Both Cats and the Island]

Cat islands are precious places where cats live freely in a near-natural state. Furthermore, on many islands, aging residents carefully watch over the cats as part of their daily lives. Disorderly behavior by tourists can harm the cats’ health, degrade the island’s environment, and even threaten the livelihoods of the islanders. Observing proper manners is essential for the cats to continue living happily and for the islands to remain attractive tourist destinations in the future.

7 Etiquette Rules to Observe When Visiting a Cat Island [Beware of Absolute NO-GOs!]

To have the best time with the cats on a cat island, be sure to follow these 7 etiquette rules:

1. Feeding cats is generally prohibited!

On most cat islands, feeding cats is prohibited in principle. Disorderly feeding by tourists can harm the cats’ health, lead to cats gathering excessively and fighting, and cause droppings to pollute the island’s environment. Even if feeding is permitted on an island, always follow the designated locations and methods. Absolutely do not give any food you brought without permission.

2. Do not force contact with cats! Do not chase or pick them up.

Cats are very delicate creatures. Forcing contact, chasing, or picking them up can cause them stress and may lead to scratches or bites. If a cat approaches you, gently pet it and respect the cat’s pace.

3. Take all your trash home! There are almost no trash cans on the islands.

Most cat islands do not have proper trash disposal facilities. Take everything you bring with you (leftover food, drink containers, snack wrappers, etc.) back home. Absolutely do not discard anything on the island, especially items that cats might accidentally ingest.

4. Do not speak loudly or make noise! Spend time quietly.

Cats are sensitive to loud noises and sudden movements. Also, cat islands are places where island residents live. Do not shout or run around; enjoy the cats and the island’s atmosphere quietly. If you remain quiet, cats may naturally approach you.

5. Do not enter private property or residential areas.

Cats may be relaxing on private property or in gardens, but these are the private spaces of the island residents. Absolutely refrain from entering without permission or peeking into windows. Be especially careful in areas where warning signs are posted.

6. Bringing pets other than cats (especially dogs) is strictly prohibited!

On cat islands, bringing pets other than cats (such as dogs) is strictly prohibited to protect the cat ecosystem and the island’s environment. This is to avoid stress for the cats and to prevent the risk of infectious diseases.

7. Always check boat operation information in advance.

Access to cat islands is solely by ferry. It is not uncommon for services to be canceled due to weather or sea conditions. Always check the latest operation information on the official website of the ferry company for the cat island you plan to visit before departing. This is especially important during winter and typhoon seasons.

Essential Packing List for Visiting a Cat Island [For a Comfortable Trip]

Cat islands, unlike typical tourist destinations, often have very limited restaurants and shops. To enjoy your cat island visit comfortably, we strongly recommend preparing the following items:

https://jatrabridge.com/2025/04/19/13216/complete-guide-japans-5-must-visit-cat-islands-thorough-comparison-of-access-cat-population-and-precautions/

Happy Cats, Happy People! Have a Memorable Cat Island Trip!

Japan’s cat islands are very special places, protected by the cats that live there and the island residents. By each visitor observing etiquette and preparing thoroughly, their stay on a cat island will become even more enjoyable and heartwarming.

We hope this article serves as a reference for your cat island visit and helps you have wonderful encounters with cats and create unforgettable memories. For the sake of the cats, the island, and your own trip, let’s enjoy responsible cat island tourism!

It is the cat island that I’d been wanting to visit.

I found out that there were guest houses on the island, and it was possible to make a reservation, so I decided to go for two days and one night.

How to get to Iwaishima Island

You can cross to Iwaishima Island by boat from Yanai Port in Yamaguchi Prefecture.

If you’re going by car, you can also drive to Murotsu, the station on the way to the boat, and get on the boat from Murotsu.

There are two benefits: you can enjoy the scenery of the peninsula while driving around, and the boat fare is cheaper.

I boarded the boat from Murotsu this time.

It was allowed to park cars in the parking lot near the roadside station.

It seems that there are also places to park near Yanai Port.

The ship is a route of Yanai Port -> Murotsu -> three other ports of call to Iukaishima, and the time of travel from Yanai Port to Iukaishima. is about 1 hour and 10 minutes away. It is about 45 minutes from Murozu.
The ship’s timetable was below as of May 2018. Please check the website for details.

Timetable (Going To Iwaishima)

■Morning Sea freight

9:30 departure from Yanai Port→10:00 Murozu→10:40 arrival at Iukaishima

Fare: 1,580 yen(The fare from Murotsu is 920 yen)

■Afternoon Sea freight

15:45 departure from Yanai Port→16:15 Murozu→16:55 arrival at Iukaishima

There is an early morning Sea freight from Murotsu directly to Iwaijima, leaving at 6:10 a.m. (Iwaijima 6:38 a.m.)

Timetable (Returning To Yanai port)

■Morning service

6:45 departure from Iwaijima→7:25 Murozu→7:55 Yanai Port

Fare is the same as above

■Afternoon Sea freight

12:30 departure from Iwaijima→13:10 Murozu→13:40 arrival at Yanai Port

■Evening Sea freight

17:05 Iwaishima→17:45 Murotsu
(The evening freight stops at Murotsu.)

You can go on a morning sea freight and come back on an evening sea freight for a day trip.

At Murotsu Port

It’s Golden Week, but I arrived at Murotsu Port earlier than planned because the highway was free.

Old houses are lined up in the narrow alleys unique to the port town.

As expected, there is a cat.
A very friendly cat.

She is a little shy brownish white.

A brown tiger is sleeping all the time.

A cat-covered state as if I’m on the cat island.

Time passed in the blink of an eye, so it was time to get on the boat.

There is a ticket office like a shed, so you may not recognize it unless people are in line.

The picture below shows the boarding area of the Murotsu boat.

The boat is quite big, so I was a little relieved to see it.

Arrived Iwaishima and Stayed Kunihiro Guest House

I boarded the packed boat and arrived at Iwaishima within 30 minutes.

I was expecting to see a cat waiting for passengers near the harbor like other cat islands, but there was no sign of it.

On the way to the guest house, I met a cat.

This is my first cat on Iwaishima.

After that, I met some cats, but they were all cautious.

When I arrived at the guest house, I had a very nice encounter.

A cat pictured below, was in front of the guest house.

And he was very friendly! (The picture is a yawn, not angry.)

This time I was stayed “Minshuku Kunihiro“.

It was run by a nice couple and I felt very happy.

The meals were full of fish.

It was 7,000 yen for one night with two meals.

I walked around the island a lot, but it wasn’t like full of cats.

So I’d like to introduce some pictures of cats and kittens near the breakwater of Iwaishima Island

Cats on the Beach

A three minute walk from the harbor where the liner arrives is the cat density area of east Iwaishima.

The photo is in the evening.

Cats gathered at the breakwater.

The cats in this area are accustomed to people, and they din’t run away even if you point a camera at them.

Cats on the back of the breakwater.

I saw between the tetrapods.

They look nice in the sea breeze.

Time to Leave Iwaishima Island

I got on the boat at 12:30 for the return trip, so this trip will be over after the morning walk.

I couldn’t take any pictures of the scene I had in mind, but I could meet some friendly cats.

Compared to Sanagijima Island and Manabeshima, where I’ve been, the cat density on Iwaishima Island was a little lower…

Also, with the exception of certain areas, there were many wary cats, which left me with the impression that it was somewhat difficult to photograph them.

For the last part of the trip, I went to the friendly cats!

This is a cat I met on the first day at the guest house.

He came to meet me while I was taking my morning walk.

He’s rolling around and is happy to see me again?

The cats on the beach in the morning are like this in the daytime.

They don’t seem to be alert.

They were sleeping.

I left the island, feeling the cats’ eyes on me, just as I did when I arrived.

That’s the story of my cat trip to Iwaishima Island.

https://jatrabridge.com/2025/04/13/13340/read-before-you-go-7-essential-etiquette-rules-and-must-haves-for-visiting-a-japanese-cat-island-complete-guide/

https://jatrabridge.com/2020/06/13/5571/

https://jatrabridge.com/2020/06/11/5569/

This island is also known for its many cats.

It is also famous for being used as a filming location for movies.

I introduced the access to Sanagijima Island from Tadotsu Port on Shikoku, but to get to Manabeshima Island, it’s convenient to take a boat from Kasaoka Port in Okayama Prefecture.

The island is here.

There is also a parking lot at the Port of Kasaoka in Okayama Prefecture.

I don’t remember how much it costs.

It’s either free or 1000 yen per day.

Check the boat schedule and fare here.

Access and Time Table of Boat

Here is time tables of Manabeshima Island

Kasaoka port ⇒ Manabeshima Island

Manabeshima Island ⇒ Kasaoka port 

You can visit Sanagijima Island too.

Check here for more information.

Good Cat Density

Manabeshima Island has quite a high cat density.

There are cats all over the town, the harbor, the seashore, and everywhere, so you can take pictures of them in various scenes.

I found a cat on the roof.

I could feel the presence of the cats.

Parent and a child sleeping proudly on the side of the road too.

It’s a unique scene on Cat Island.

I went to the peak of the birth in June, so there was also scene like this.

Welcomed by Many of Cats at Motoura

There are two villages in Manabeshima Island.

The one with the highest population and cat density is Motoura, and the slightly smaller one is Iwatsubo.

As I introduced above, there are two types of boats from Kasaoka to Manabe: high speed boats and ordinary boats, and ordinary boats offer direct access to Iwatsubo.

It takes about 20 minutes to get to Iwatsubo on foot from Motoura.

This time I decided to go around the two villages because I had time to spare.

From Motoura first.

When I got off the fast boat, I saw cats…

Further across the pier, cats everywhere!

A woman with a convenience store bag was surrounded by cats, apparently thinking that tourists with bags will feed them.

According to the islanders.

Cats don’t come to us islanders. They only come to those who feed.

Amazing Sashimi Set Meal

It was close to noon I entered the restaurant “Funade“, which was the only one? on the island.

There are normal menu such as curry udon noodles for a few hundred yen, but since I was here, I had a sashimi set meal!

I heard a rumor that the food was fresh and delicious, so I had high expectations.

Okoze, octopus and abalone.

The okoze and the octopus are still moving!

In addition to this sashimi, rice, salad, mini-o-den, tempura and fish soup is included in the price of 2,000 yen.

There are two to three servings of sashimi.

Cheap and delicious, it’s a maximum charge for both mind and body.

Cats near Motoura Port

After I had a full stomach, I took pictures of the cats around the Motoura area.

There is another shop near the restaurant “Funade”.

Cats looking into the fish tank there.

Fish are swimming in the net, but they can’t seem to catch them.

A cat on the bench in front of the store.

They look like cats with hay fever.

There are many benches on Manabe Island, but I got the impression that more cats are using them than people.

Eventually the cats will take over the benches.

Lots of cats near the harbor, too.

A good friend of the cat is taking a walk.

They move together, sometimes expressing affection.

In the morning, I could interact with many cats in the mild spring weather at Motoura.

Cats on the Beach

Well, speaking of Cat Island, the sea and cats.

I’ve taken some of those scenes again.

The area under the boat by the sea is a summer resort for cats.

It’s a summer resort for cats, and it’s one of the places where many cats gather.

Speaking of summer resort, here’s a group of cats under a table on the beach…

Manabeshima’s scenery and An Impression of Cats

I introduced cat island, Manabeshima this time, but when I was sorting through the photos, I thought, “there were more towns than the ocean“.

If you want to take a picture with a cat in the town’s landscape, I can highly recommend.

By the way, I also stopped in Onomichi, Hiroshima on my way back from Manabeshima to look for cats, but there were quite a few fewer cats!

Onomichi was also introduced as a place where you can often see cats, so please refer to it.

https://jatrabridge.com/2025/04/13/13340/read-before-you-go-7-essential-etiquette-rules-and-must-haves-for-visiting-a-japanese-cat-island-complete-guide/

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I love cats.

I always think how happy I would be if I could live surrounded by cats.

There are many islands where people live like that.

The most famous one is Sanagijima Island in Kagawa Prefecture.

Famous for Flying(Jumping) Cats, a Representative of Cat Island

Many cat lovers may already know about it…

Sanagijima Island is a very famous spot on Shikoku where you can take pictures of flying cats.

There are many references on the internet, and the cat density is quite high.

Access to Sanagijima Island

You can get to the island by boat from Tadotsu Port in Kagawa Prefecture.

There is a free parking space at Tadotsu Port, so you won’t have to worry about parking.

There are not many ferry services, so be careful.

Here is time table as of June 2020.

From Tadotsu to Sanagi Island.

From Sanagi Island to Tadotsu.

The ride time is about 50 minutes and the fare is 680 yen for one way.

I recommend leaving Tadotsu at 9:05am and returning at 14:50 or 15:25 for cat photography.

If it’s hot in the summer, I strongly recommend leaving at 6:55am.

Time and fares are subject to change, so please check Official web site.

It seems that it is possible to get there by boat from the Kasaoka side of Okayama City, not the Shikoku side.

I’ve never been to Sanagi from the Okayama side, so I can’t tell you how to get there…

Density of Cats is Just as Rumored, a Real Cat Island

A chair with a statue of a cat in the waiting area of the boat just off the ship.

A cat underneath it!

A good start.

It’s indeed the famous Cat Island.

After that, the cats appear one by one.

The town is a maze of narrow alleys, and there are cats on the side of the road.

The combination of alleyways and cats is also picturesque.

When I visited Sanagijima Island in June, it was the season for cats to give birth, and I also met this scene.

Sea + Cat, the best part of Cat Island

Since I came to Cat Island, I thought it would be a good idea to take pictures of the ocean and a cat.

Cats on the island are not afraid of the water.

They don’t mind walking around on the beach.

First of all, I snapped a picture of a tiger cat on the beach.

These are cats who are walking along the breakwater.

That’s right!

This breakwater is the jumping board for the cats.

Flying Cats

It’s time for the real flying cat scene.

Here it comes!

This is a picture of a flying cat.

It’s a beautiful picture of a flying cat.

The white cat behind me is a nice touch.

This one also has a pretty good jumping power.

It’s quite beautiful to see a cat flying.

I also tried to get an angle from below.

However, there are a few things to consider when taking a picture of a flying cat, so I’ll summarize them here.

I highly recommend this spot!

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I’ve been wanting to go to this island for a long time, as it was featured in  photo book of cats in the past!

I went to Cat Island over the 10-day Golden Week Holidays.

https://jatrabridge.com/2019/12/03/3465/

Access to Sakushima Island

 Sakushima is a remote island located in Nishio City, Aichi Prefecture, and can be reached by boat from Isshiki Port in Nishio City.

The address of Isshiki Port is 176 Koyubunen Koto, Isshiki-cho, Nishio City.

Isshiki Port is close to the Fish Morning Market, and free parking is available in front of the market (You don’t have to use the morning market).

Next to the morning market is a fish and shellfish shopping and restaurant.

There is a “Isshiki Sakana Hiroba“, which seems to be quite busy on weekends.

There are seven ferry services a day, the earliest one leaving at 6:30 and arriving at Sakushima (East Port) at 7:00.

Here is the timetable of ferry and bus which I translated from Japanese site.

The boat seems to have a capacity of more than 100 people, so it doesn’t seem to be over capacity on a normal weekend.

However, I heard that it might be crowded during Golden Week holidays.

In fact, the boat was over capacity when I visited.

When that happens, there will be increase in the number of boats on the island.

Those who cross to the island by bus or train need to be careful (it’s a good idea to line up at the port a little early).

There are two boat docks on the island, West Port and East Port.

You can encounter cats in the villages around both ports.

It takes about 20 minutes to get from West Port to East Port on foot, and about 10 minutes by rented bicycle.

Cats around East Port of Sakushima

Since I stayed at a guest house in East Port, I got off at East Port (the last stop was East Port) and started to explore.

It was very windy, so I walked but couldn’t find the cat for the first hour or so.

After collecting information from the people of the island, I found that the cats on Sakushima seem to gather in a specific house.

In Sanagi Island(in Kagawa) and Manabe Island(in Okayama), if you stroll around the island, you’ll see many cats, but on Sakushima Island, things are a little different.

There are cats on the island, but you’ll almost always see them in yards where residents live.

They are quite close to their own cats.

It seems there are a lot of cases where they are being fed in the yard as shown in the picture.

A resident said:

I don’t have a cat, but the cats took up residence on their own while I was feeding them

I managed to get permission from the house where the cat is staying to start taking photos.

I couldn’t take pictures of the cats staying in the garden, so I took pictures of the cat playing in the garden quietly from a distance.

I was keenly aware of how lucky I was to have brought my telephoto lens.

Many of the houses have beautiful flowers growing in them, so you can take lots of pictures of flowers and cats.

There were still some small cats playing around, and I got some great shots of them.

One of the cats, who appeared in “The Island of Cats,” posed for a picture.

I heard that this cat was walking on his owner’s shoulder.

I took a picture of cat actually getting on the owner.

Foods and Guest Houses in East Port

I got the impression that there are a lot of guest houses and restaurants in Higashiko(East Port).

The sashimi set meal I had for lunch was freshly caught flounder, sea cucumbers, octopus, etc. and priced at 1,200 yen!

By the way, the guest house I stayed at was called Ichibei, and it was just under 8,000 yen for one night and two meals.

I ate a lot of seafood such as crab, octopus, sashimi and boiled fish.

The dish in the photo comes with a small boiled octopus and clams.

The bike rentals were free and they kept our luggage at times other than check in and check out.

Cats around Sakushima West Port

The area around West port is dotted with art galleries such as “Ohirune House” and stylish cafes that have been renovated from old houses, and it’s a bit of a fashionable town.

Photo above is the “Ohirune House”.

It looks nice if you take a nap while listening to the sound of the ocean.

Like at East Port, I didn’t see any cats walking around the town or the port area, but rather they seemed to be hanging out in private house’s yards or near the entrance.

You can’t go into private house’s yards to take photos without permission, so I had to ask permission from the owners of private homes to take photos here as well.

There was a young cat who loved to play.

I wanted to keep photographing him because his every gesture was so cute, but he still went into private house’s yards.

Feeling the frustration of not being able to shoot as much as I would like, I tried to look for cats again.

It’s not that there are no cats in town.

However, the cats you see occasionally are wary and you can’t approach them easily.

The friendly cats go into private house’s.

It’s a little different from Sanyu Island and Manabe Island, where many cats don’t go into houses.

The picture is near the harbor where the fishermen’s boats dock in the west harbor. I expected to see a cat holding a fish, but I could not find the cat itself. Too bad.

Summary of Cats in Sakushima

Sakushima Island is a little different from the other cat islands.

Lastly, the most friendly cat in a village in East Port.

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When you hear saying an island, you may imagine somewhere afar, but actually you can go there in about one to one and half hours, using a train and a ferry from Hakata.

This time, let me show you how to enjoy “AinoShima”, where tourists even from overseas visit as a cat island of Fukuoka.

Let’s fully enjoy AinoShima by either of 4 ways that are introduced here!

Note that Fukuoka has two cat islands and both name are “AinoShima”, but different spell in Japanese.

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Check How To Go To AinoShima First

image by pintofcoffee.com

To AinoShima, you can go from Shingu Port (AinoShima Tosenba, a ferry boat boarding point) in Fukuoka, using a ferry about for 20 minutes (460 yen for one way).

As there are only six round trips a day during April through September and only five round trips a day during October through March, you may need to be careful.

Here is the timetable.

Also, you will go to Shingu Port by using town operated community buses departing from JR Fukkodaimae station or Nishitetsu Shingu station.

It is possible to use the bus at very reasonable fare of 100 Yen per boarding.

There is also a parking place at Shingu Port, so you can drive to the port and transfer to the boat.

As it takes just about 15 to 20 minute by train from JR Hakata station to JR Fukkodaimae station, it is accessible and convenient.

How to Enjoy AinoShima 1. Play With Cats

The island is so called a cat island where cats will greet you as soon as you get off the boat.

There are cats freely sleeping, reclining, and strolling in carefree manners, especially around the port area where many people live.

Many cats are friendly, so cats will not hardly get angry even if you touch them.

Though, of course, it is not good to wake up cats that are sleeping, let’s enjoy shooting photos from afar, and playing and touching with cats that approach to you.

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How to Enjoy AinoShima 2. Stroll on the island

Circumference of AinoShima is about 8 km.

As you can go around the whole island walking only on a big road, men and women of all ages are strolling, while enjoying superb views.

Quite different from the landscape of the port of the first, there spreads forest on the other side of the island, so you can walk enjoying Shinrin-yoku (surrounded in a forest atmosphere, having refreshing feeling).

Also, there are abundant points to see, such as “Hanagurise (so called Meganeiwa or Glasses Rock)”, which is a rock on the sea with a hole in the middle and is the Prefectural designated cultural treasure, as well as “AinoShima Stone Ancient Tombs” which is a historical site on beach.

Let’s enjoy strolling while enjoying sightseeing and nature.

How to Enjoy AinoShima 3. Enjoy Fishing

image by pintofcoffee.com

AinoShima is a town of fishing industry.

As a result, there also many tourists taking a ferry for enjoying only fishing.

If you are a fishing-lover, you can easily enjoy fishing when you bring a fishing rod.

Especially, an area around the fishing port is prepared for fishing easily, so you can also enjoy fishing together with small kids.

How to Enjoy AinoShima 4. Enjoy Gourmets

image by note.mu

On AinoShima, you can also enjoy gourmets only on an island.

As there is just one restaurant next to AinoShima Tourist Information Center on the island, you shall eat there.

They serve many menus that use abundant fresh seafoods caught in the near shore, including Sashimi Teishoku Set and Kaisen Champon (Seafood Champon Ramen noodle) that use a plenty of seafoods, and Croquette Teishoku Set that uses minced fish.

So, you can fully enjoy the island gourmets.

It is also recommended to order Sashimi as an a la carte.

Summary

Although AinoShima is famous as a cat island, you can enjoy various other activities, such as strolling, fishing and enjoying gourmets, beside playing with cats.

Good to fully enjoy all the activities by taking a ferry a bit early in the morning, and also good to enjoy activities only of your interest.

Numbers of tourists to “AinoShima”, a cat island of Fukuoka, are increasing year by year.

Please enjoy completely the time on the island by your only way of enjoying yourself!

*Please check and confirm the latest information on some official websites.

https://jatrabridge.com/2025/04/13/13340/read-before-you-go-7-essential-etiquette-rules-and-must-haves-for-visiting-a-japanese-cat-island-complete-guide/

https://jatrabridge.com/2019/08/04/1857/

https://jatrabridge.com/2020/06/11/5569/

https://jatrabridge.com/2020/06/04/5517/