Have you heard of Tashirojima, a paradise for cat lovers? Located in Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture, this small island is known as the ‘Island of Cats,’ where the cat population exceeds that of humans.
Here, you can observe the cats living freely up close, making it a true paradise for cat lovers.
Tashirojima is an island that is part of a ria coastline facing the Pacific Ocean. It is located about 40 minutes by ferry from the port of Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture. The island is small, covering an area of approximately 2.92 square kilometers. It offers a rich natural environment, and the beautiful scenery, surrounded by the sea, captivates visitors.
In the past, sericulture was thriving on Tashirojima, and cats were kept to protect the silkworms from mice. The island is also known for its active fishing industry, and fishermen are said to have predicted weather and fishing conditions based on the behavior of the cats. One day, a cat that approached a fisherman while he was working tragically died in an accident. It is said that the fisherman carefully buried the cat, and from that moment, the cat was revered as a cat deity.
Today, bringing dogs to the island is prohibited (except for service dogs), creating a safe and comfortable environment for the cats. The island is home to the Cat Shrine and various cat-themed facilities, making it a place where cats, nature, and the warmth of the people coexist in harmony.
The cats on Tashirojima roam the island freely and are often seen enjoying sunbathing. They are not very cautious of humans, and many cats will approach visitors. There are various cats, including black, white, and calico cats, with different coat colors and patterns. Whether they’re chasing each other, climbing trees, or simply living freely, the sight of these cats is sure to bring comfort and joy to everyone.
Interacting with Cats on Tashirojima
When interacting with the cats on Tashirojima, it’s important to keep a few points in mind. First, it’s essential to respect the cats’ pace and not force interaction. You can gently call out to them or extend your hand for them to sniff, which helps to make them feel comfortable. Additionally, to ensure the cats’ health, it’s best to refrain from feeding them.
Tashirojima is a great island to explore on foot. A recommended route starts at the port and leads to the Cat Shrine. The Cat Shrine is a symbol of Tashirojima.
At this shrine, there is a small shrine dedicated to cats, where visitors offer various items, such as figurines, to wish for the health and happiness of the cats. Many cats naturally gather around the area of the Cat Shrine.
From Tokyo Station → Tohoku Shinkansen (90 minutes to 2 hours) → Sendai Station → JR Senseki Line (90 minutes) → Ishinomaki Station → Bus → Ishinomaki Port → Ferry → Tashirojima
The island has two ports: Odohama Port and Nitoda Port. If you are visiting specifically to see the cats, it’s recommended to get off at Nitoda Port.
The ferry schedule varies depending on the season, so it’s a good idea to check it in advance for peace of mind.
