Visiting Cat Island (Tashirojima) In Japan

Tashirojima, or Tashiro Island, is a small island in the Miyagi prefecture in Japan, with a small population of around 50 people and over 100 cats, hence why it’s nicknamed ‘Cat Island‘. It’s a unique destination for tourists looking for something off the beaten path, and an ideal day trip via a short ferry ride over from the Ishinomaki terminal.

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The History of Tashirojima

In the late Edo period, much of the island raised silkworms for textiles, and kept cats to keep mice away from the precious insects. All of the pet cats were released to roam free in 1602 in an effort to counter the booming rodent population, which led to the large cat colony on the island today.

Tashirojima was unfortunately hit by the Tōhoku tsunami in 2011, destroying the harbour and causing a number of fishing families to move away. Although the harbour was rebuilt in 2015, the fishing industry remained diminished, and tourism became one of the main sources of income for the small island.

How to get to Cat Island

In order to get to Tashirojima, you have to take a ferry from the Ishinomaki terminal. You can take the Tohoku Shinkansen line from Tokyo to Sendai, then switch to a local train from Sendai to Ishinomaki. From Ishinomaki station, it’s a 15 minute walk to the Ajishima Line Chuo ferry pier. It can be a little hard to find – click here for more detailed instructions.

The ferry takes about 45 minutes to reach Tashirojima, and stops at both of its ports; Odomari (North) and Nitoda (South). A one-way ticket costs ¥1,250 (€8.75) and is payable by cash only.

As of 1 Februry 2024, this is the current Cat Island Ferry Timetable, but check the website for last-minute cancellations or changes.

Cat Island (Tashirojima) Ferry Timetable 2024

Departing Ishinomaki

Ishinomaki	Ishinomaki	Tashirojima	Tashirojima
Depart from Chuo	Depart from Kadonowaki	Arrive at Odomari	Arrive at Nitoda
09:00	09:10	09:36	09:44
12:30	12:42	13:24	13:34
15:30	15:40	16:06	16:14

Departing Tashirojima

Tashirojima	Tashirojima	Ishinomaki	Ishinomaki
Depart from Nitoda	Depart from Odomari	Arrive at Kadonowaki	Arrive at Chuo
07:55	08:02	08:35	08:42
13:55	14:02	14:33	14:40
15:30	15:35	16:20	16:27

Since the ferries only depart to and from the island three times a day, you have to plan your visit quite carefully to ensure you’re not left stranded overnight. To make a full day of it, it’s best to catch the 9am ferry from Ishinomaki to Tashirojima, then catch the 15:30 ferry back.

What to do on Cat Island

Visit the Cat Shrine

The miniature Neko-Jinja shrine can be found about halfway between the Odomari and Nitoda villages.

The story goes that when some fishermen were collecting rocks for their nets, one fell and killed a cat. They buried her and built the shrine in her memory, and locals still bring offerings here for luck.

You’ll see lots of cat-related items, toys, and food left here.

If you’re lucky, there’ll be a few cats hanging around the shrine, that will be happy to accept a pat from you.

Play with the Cats

Most of the cat population on Tashirojima can be found around the Nitoda Port, but as you wander around the island, you’ll come across many different cats in places like the shrine, the Shima-no-Eki shop, Odomari Port, and the small café Kuronekodō.

In general the cats will be happy for a bit of attention, but make sure to follow the rules – sleeping cats should not be disturbed, and you’re not allowed to feed them any treats for their health. They’ll be happy to pose for lots of photos though!

Shop for souvenirs

Both Shima-no-Eki and Kuronekodō sell cat-themed souvenirs, many of them original and unique to Tashirojima. Treat yourself to a towel, T-shirt, print or good luck charm! Shima-no-Eki also serves sweet and savory dishes, with a picnic area outside to eat your own food at as well.

Explore the Island

The two villages of Odomari and Nitoda on Tashirojima are linked by walking trails and narrow roads, and you can choose to take the shorter path between the two, passing the shrine and the shop, or take a hike through the woods and along the coast, which I highly recommend.

About three quarters of the way around the hiking trail from Nitoda to Odomari, there is a scenic spot that’s perfect to stop and rest at with a picnic.

While the Shima-no-Eki shop does sell food, it’s better to come prepared with food and drink from the mainland, in case it’s unexpectedly closed.

Make sure to wear proper walking shoes as well, as you’ll be walking on rough trails up and down many inclines. Also ensure you take your trash back with you to the mainland, as littering is strictly prohibited.

Where to stay on Tashirojima

Tashirojima Hotel

Cat Island has also been dubbed ‘Manga Island‘, as acclaimed manga artist Shotaro Ishinomori was planning to move to the island, before his untimely death. His memory is honoured in the camping resort on Tashirojima.

A number of cat-shaped buildings were built for visitors to stay in from July to October, each lodge featuring cat-themed artwork by famous manga artists, including Ishinomori.

Each of the five lodges are equipped with a kitchen and toilet, and two have shower facilities (if you stay in one without, you have to shower in the office building). They include cooking utensils, a microwave, fridge, and rice cooker, but don’t forget to buy your food before coming to Tashirojima. Be warned if you plan to stay in the Summer though – they don’t have air conditioners.

For more information and to reserve your stay, head to the Umimachi Enpaku website.

Other Cat Islands in Japan

Alongside Tashirojima, there are actually an incredible 16 other ‘Cat Islands’ you can visit in Japan!

16 Cat Islands to visit in Japan (besides Tashirojima)

Check out where else I’ve travelled in Japan!

Miyagi

Tohoku

Visiting Tashirojima: How to get to Cat Island Japan