Welcome to the perfect paradise of Aoshima, Japan’s most beloved cat island. Amidst the neon lights of Tokyo and the cherry blossoms of Kyoto, the cat islands of Japan offer a unique and heartwarming experience that often goes unnoticed. Aoshima, a small island in the Ehime Prefecture, is a dream destination for cat lovers. This tiny haven, less than 2 kilometers wide, is dominated by over 200 free-roaming cats, vastly outnumbering the human residents. Known for its tranquil beauty and friendly feline inhabitants, Aoshima offers a rare glimpse into a world where cats reign supreme and humans are mere guests.
The History of Aoshima
Aoshima’s transformation into Japan’s most famous cat island has a unique backstory. In the 1940s, it was a thriving fishing village with a population of 900. Cats were introduced to combat a mouse problem, which benefitted the fishermen. However, as the fishing industry declined, so did the human population, leaving the cats behind. Their population flourished without humans, creating the large cat community present today. With only about 20 human residents remaining, all over the age of 50, Aoshima’s fame as a cat island has grown through social media, with visitors sharing their enchanting encounters online. A comprehensive spaying program has been introduced to ensure the island’s future.
How to Reach Aoshima: A Journey Worth Every Step
The journey to Aoshima begins with a two-hour flight from Tokyo to Matsuyama Airport. From there, a one-hour JR Yosan Line train ride takes you to Iyo-Nagahama Station. A short 10-minute walk later, you’ll find yourself at Nagahama Port, where a 35-minute ferry ride connects you to the magical cat island. Be sure to check the ferry schedule as services may vary depending on weather conditions.
11 Must-Know Facts About Aoshima, the Cat Island
- A Tiny Paradise: Aoshima is a small island with fewer than two square kilometers in area, home to dozens of human inhabitants and over 200 cats.
- Prepare for Your Visit: The island lacks shops, cafes, accommodations, or vending machines, so bring everything you might need. Public toilets are available at the ferry terminal.
- Friendly Felines: The cats of Aoshima are semi-wild but generally very friendly, enjoying interaction with visitors. Feeding is allowed in designated areas with small amounts of cat food.
- Bring Toys for an Unforgettable Experience: Engage the furry residents with toys for a memorable visit. Remember, respecting the island’s rules and its feline and human inhabitants is paramount.
- No Public Transport: Comfortable walking shoes are a must as you explore the island’s nooks and crannies.
- Support the Cats: Consider contributing to the welfare of Aoshima’s cats through donations to their caretakers.
- Winter Visits: Plan your visit during colder months when food might be scarce for the cats.
- Uncertain Future: The declining human population raises concerns about the island’s future and ferry service continuity.
- Neko Shima: Often referred to as ‘cat islands,’ Aoshima is among the most famous of Japan’s 11 cat islands.
- Breathtaking Surroundings: Encircled by the Pacific Ocean, boat tours offer stunning views of this cat paradise.
- Spaying and Neutering Efforts: Efforts are made to control the cat population, with adoption opportunities available.
Other Cat Islands in Japan
Aoshima isn’t the only cat kingdom in the Land of the Rising Sun. Japan is home to several islands where cats outnumber humans, adding charm to these communities. Here are a few notable locations:
- Tashirojima: Located in Miyagi Prefecture, it’s the second most famous cat island, easily accessible by a one-hour ferry ride from Ishinomaki.
- Enoshima: Closest to Tokyo, in Kanagawa Prefecture, offers a convenient escape from the bustling capital.
- Okinoshima: Situated in Lake Biwa, Shiga Prefecture, this floating island is another haven for cat enthusiasts.
Exploring Aoshima and Japan’s other cat islands offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in serene environments dominated by the gentle purrs and soft fur of countless friendly cats. These islands are not just about the felines but also about the profound sense of community and care among the residents, both human and cat alike.