In Japan, there are several islands known as “cat islands” (Neko-jima) where large populations of cats live alongside people. Each island, such as Tashirojima in Miyagi Prefecture, Aoshima in Ehime Prefecture, and Sanagijima in Kagawa Prefecture, has its own unique charm and offers a special experience for cat-loving travelers. In this article, we will introduce seven of the best cat islands across Japan in detail, including how to access them, important tips for visiting, as well as cat-related spots in Tokyo and Kyoto, and an explanation of Japan’s unique “Cat Day.” Please use this guide to enjoy your encounters with cats in Japan.
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Manners When Visiting Cat Islands | Do People Live There? Is It Okay to Feed the Cats?
There are some important manners you should know before visiting a cat island.
People Also Live on Cat Islands
Places known as “cat islands” are not tourist facilities but actual communities where people live. It is important to respect the privacy of the residents.
Feeding the Cats Is Generally Prohibited
Feeding the cats is generally prohibited, and in some cases, residents or volunteers manage feeding under strict rules. Feeding cats without permission can cause allergic reactions or other issues, so please be careful. If you wish to feed the cats, be sure to check the rules on the official website of the local government or on signs posted on the island in advance.
Be Considerate of Both Cats and Residents When Visiting
When visiting, make sure to take your trash home with you, do not forcefully touch or chase the cats, and be considerate of the residents by not making noise. Interact with the cats gently and at their own pace, and enjoy your time with them respectfully.
7 Recommended Cat Islands Across Japan｜Tashirojima, Sanagijima, and More
There are many unique cat islands throughout Japan. Here, we introduce seven of the most representative cat islands, along with information on how to access them and their highlights.
Tashirojima (Miyagi Prefecture)
Tashirojima, known as a “island of cats” (neko no shima), is a small island located in Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture. On the island, you’ll find the “Cat Shrine” (Neko-jinja), where the cat deity is enshrined and has long been worshipped as a guardian for a good catch in fishery. For this reason, cats are treated with great care on the island. One of the charms of Tashirojima is that you can enjoy leisurely walks around the island while interacting with the cats.
There is also “Manga Island,” an accommodation facility designed by manga artists Tetsuya Chiba and Machiko Satonaka. The cat-themed buildings, such as “Shima Lodge” and “Shiro Lodge,” are so cute you’ll want to take photos of them.
- Access: About 17 minutes by Miyako Bus from Ishinomaki Station, get off at Kadowaki 2-chome, then a 3-minute walk to the pier. 45 minutes by ferry from Ishinomaki Old Kitakami River Mouth Pier
- Reference site: https://www.city.ishinomaki.lg.jp/cont/10053500/0050/3639/3639.html
👉Book accommodation on Tashirojima! [Jalan]
Enoshima (Kanagawa Prefecture)
Enoshima, one of Kanagawa Prefecture’s most popular tourist destinations, is famous for its beautiful coastline and Enoshima Shrine, but it is also a popular spot for meeting cats. In the back alleys and around the observation deck, you can often see cats relaxing at their own pace. The combination of the Shonan coast and cats is especially popular with international visitors.
- Access: 18 minutes on foot from Katase-Enoshima, 21 minutes on foot from Enoshima, 23 minutes on foot from Shonan-Enoshima
- Reference site: https://www.fujisawa-kanko.jp/spot/enoshima/
Sakushima (Aichi Prefecture)
Sakushima, also known as the “Island of Art,” is dotted with contemporary art installations throughout the island, with cats naturally blending into these scenic landscapes as part of the view. Many cats live around the fishing port, allowing visitors to share the island’s relaxed pace of life alongside them. It is a charming island where you can enjoy beautiful coastal scenery, art tours, and encounters with cats all at once.
- Access: 20 minutes by high-speed boat from Isshiki Port to Sakushima East Port
- Official website: https://sakushima.com/
👉Book your stay on Sakushima! [Jalan]
Manabeshima (Okayama Prefecture)
Manabeshima, a small island in the Seto Inland Sea off Kasaoka City, Okayama Prefecture, is a beautiful fishing village that retains the nostalgic atmosphere of the Showa era. It has served as a filming location for movies and is known for its stone embankments and old townscape. Cats relaxing around the port and under the eaves of local houses will welcome you. Since the island is not overly commercialized, you can experience the simple island lifestyle and the harmonious coexistence of people and cats.
- Access: Sanyo Kisen operates from Sumiyoshi Port, with about 44 minutes by high-speed boat (3 trips per day) and about 70 minutes by regular boat (5 trips per day)
- Reference site: https://www.kasaoka-kankou.jp/island/manabeshima
Sanagijima (Kagawa Prefecture)
Sanagijima, which became famous for photos of “flying cats,” is a small island in Tadotsu Town, Kagawa Prefecture. Images of cats leaping across gaps in the seawall spread on social media, making it a popular destination for cat lovers. The island’s cats are friendly and spend their days leisurely around the port. Tadotsu Port, where the ferry departs, is within walking distance from JR Tadotsu Station, making it easily accessible for day trips from Takamatsu City.
- Access: 50 minutes by boat from Tadotsu Port
- Reference site: https://www.my-kagawa.jp/shimatabi/feature/shimatabi/sanagijima
Aoshima (Ehime Prefecture)
Aoshima, located in Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, in the Seto Inland Sea, is known as a “island of cats” (neko no shima) where cats far outnumber the human residents. The island is home to a quiet fishing village where people and cats coexist peacefully. While tourists do visit, there are no vending machines, convenience stores, or restaurants on the island, and access is only by scheduled ferry. Even so, the simple island scenery and the chance to interact with free-roaming cats make it a “sacred place” for cat lovers or catos.
- Access: 35 minutes by boat from Nagahama Port (2 trips per day)
- Reference site: https://ritou.ehime.jp/guide/aoshima/
Ainoshima (Fukuoka Prefecture)
Ainoshima, which was selected by CNN as one of the “World’s 6 Best Cat Spots,” is a popular destination. Located northeast of Fukuoka City, it is easily accessible, just about 20 minutes by ferry from Shingu Fishing Port, making it ideal for day trips. As soon as you get off the ferry, you will be greeted by cats, and you can enjoy watching them freely roam around the port and throughout the island.
There are plenty of tourist attractions, such as beautiful beaches and ancient stone mounds. You can also enjoy taking photos of cats with the sea in the background. Facilities for tourists are well developed, including rental bicycles and souvenir shops, making it a recommended destination even for first-time visitors to Cat Island.
- Access: 17 minutes by ferry from Shingu Fishing Port
- Reference site: https://www.crossroadfukuoka.jp/spot/11453
A Must-See for Cat Lovers! Cat Spots and Maneki Neko Landmarks in Tokyo and Kyoto
You can easily enjoy cat-themed spots without going to an island. These locations are easy to visit alongside sightseeing in Tokyo or Kyoto, allowing you to enjoy relaxing moments with cats during your trip.
Gotokuji Temple (Tokyo) | The Birthplace of Maneki Neko
Gotokuji Temple, located in Setagaya, Tokyo, is known as the birthplace of the Maneki Neko (beckoning cat). The temple grounds are lined with Maneki Neko figurines of all sizes, creating an impressive sight that will make you stop in your tracks. It is said to bring good fortune for family safety, business prosperity, and luck, attracting many visitors from both Japan and abroad.
There are also charming items inspired by Maneki Neko, such as ema (votive plaques), sticky notes with lucky cat motifs, and chopsticks, which make great souvenirs.
- Access: 5 minutes on foot from Miyanosaka Station
- Official website: https://gotokuji.jp/
Yanaka Ginza (Tokyo) | A Cat Town Preserving the Old Downtown Atmosphere
Yanaka Ginza, which retains the atmosphere of old Tokyo, is affectionately known as a "town of cats" (neko no machi). The shopping street is lined with cat-themed goods and sweets, and if you are lucky, you may spot cats relaxing in the back alleys. The view from "Yuyake Dandan" at sunset is a popular spot that soothes the heart, even for those who are not cat lovers.
- Access: 5 minutes on foot from Nippori Station
- Official website: https://www.yanakaginza.com/
Nyannyanji Temple (Kyoto) | A Cat-Themed Museum
Nyannyanji Temple, located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, opened in 2016 as a museum dedicated to cats. The renovated traditional house features exhibitions of cat-related art and goods.
In addition to cat art displays, the museum also sells cat merchandise, making it a paradise for cat lovers. Special exhibitions and events are held regularly, allowing visitors to enjoy cat-themed works by artists from Japan and abroad.
The unique atmosphere, created by the blend of a traditional Kyoto building and contemporary art, is part of its charm, making it a new must-visit spot for Kyoto sightseeing.
- Access: About 2 minutes on foot from Mikogafuchi bus stop on Kyoto Bus No. 17 bound for Ohara
- Official website: https://nyannyanji22.www2.jp/
Why is February 22 Cat Day? Cat Days in Japan and Around the World
Here is an introduction to "Cat Day," which every cat lover should know about, including its origins and cat days around the world.
The Origin of Cat Day in Japan
In Japan, February 22 is celebrated as "Cat Day" every year. This was established in 1987 by the Cat Day Executive Committee, based on a play on words between the sound of a cat's meow in Japanese language "nyan nyan nyan" and the numbers "2-2-2."
Events related to Cat Day are held throughout Japan, and cat cafes and cat goods shops offer special promotions.
Related Article
The Difference with World Cat Day (August 8)
On the other hand, internationally, August 8 is known as "World Cat Day." This was established in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). The day aims to raise awareness for the welfare and protection of cats worldwide and serves as an opportunity to think about the protection of stray cats and proper cat care.
While Japan’s Cat Day was created based on a play on words rooted in cultural tradition, International Cat Day places greater emphasis on the social significance of animal welfare. Another key difference is that each country has its own cat-related holiday, such as “National Cat Day” on October 29 in the United States and “Cat Day” on March 1 in Russia.
Cat Day is not only a time to express love for cats but also an important opportunity to think about their happiness and protection. When visiting Japan’s cat islands, showing consideration and respect for the cats will lead to a richer and more meaningful experience.
Travel to Cat Islands: A Unique Japanese Journey Connecting People and Cats
Japan’s cat islands are rare places where you can experience the unique culture of coexistence between cats and people. Each island has its own character, and encounters with cats, along with beautiful nature and historical backgrounds, will make your trip even more memorable. Let Cat Day be your inspiration to embark on a journey to discover Japan’s distinctive cat culture.
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