Free-roaming cats are a familiar sight throughout Tashirojima, where they have lived alongside island residents for generations (Photo credit: PIXTA)

If you’re a cat lover, few places are more memorable than Tashirojima. Located in Ishinomaki Bay, off the coast of Miyagi Prefecture, this small island has become famous for its large feline population, with cats said to outnumber people by around four to one. Wandering the narrow lanes and fishing harbors, visitors can observe the island’s free-roaming cats living alongside local residents as part of the rhythms of everyday life. A day trip offers a glimpse into this gentle coexistence, while an overnight stay in one of the island’s distinctive cat-themed cabins provides an opportunity to experience its slower pace more fully.

The small Cat Shrine was built in memory of a beloved cat and remains a symbol of the island’s affection for its feline companions

Tashirojima’s close relationship with cats dates back centuries. The island was once a thriving center for silkworm production, where cats were kept to protect delicate cocoons from rats. Fishermen also cared for the semi-wild cats, sharing scraps from their daily catch and believing they brought good fortune at sea. Today, many residents continue to make a living through fishing and seaweed harvesting, and the cats remain a cherished part of island life. Visitors can follow woodland paths to the small Cat Shrine, built in memory of a cat accidentally killed by a falling rock—a lasting symbol of the island’s affection and respect for its feline companions.

Visitors can relax alongside Tashirojima’s resident cats at the welcoming Shima-no-Eki café

Although Tashirojima is only around three kilometers long, it rewards a leisurely walk between its two ferry ports along quiet forest paths and coastal roads. Along the way, visitors are likely to encounter cats dozing in the sunshine, wandering the lanes or quietly watching fishing boats come and go.

A popular stop is Shima-no-Eki, a welcoming café and souvenir shop housed in the island’s former elementary and junior high school. Around 60 cats are cared for there, making it an ideal place to pause, browse cat-themed souvenirs and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

The café serves snacks and dishes made with local ingredients, including Nyan Curry, Kitsuneko Udon and Oyster Shiojiru soup. Visitors can sit outside and enjoy their meal in the company of the resident cats. The cats are fed three times a day to ensure that each receives enough food. Overnight guests may be able to observe the morning or evening feeding, while day visitors can plan their visit around the noon session.

Manga Island’s playful cat-shaped cabins offer a memorable overnight stay surrounded by nature (Photo credit: PIXTA)

For those wishing to linger a little longer, Manga Island offers a memorable overnight stay. Nestled among the trees, its distinctive cat-shaped cabins overlook the sea and blend playfully into the island landscape. Designed by well-known manga artists, the simple yet comfortable cabins accommodate five or six guests and are open from April to October. Staying overnight also offers the chance to experience the island at its quietest, when the day-trippers have departed and the relaxed rhythm of island life truly comes into its own.

Preserving Tashirojima’s peaceful atmosphere depends on visitors respecting both its residents and its feline population. Cats are carefully cared for by local volunteers, so visitors are asked not to feed them, offer treats or catnip, or leave behind toys that could cause injury. Wild camping and campfires are not permitted, visitors should take all rubbish home with them, and care should be taken not to enter private property or overlook that this is a lived-in community. By following these simple guidelines, visitors can help ensure that Tashirojima remains a welcoming home for both people and cats.

On Tashirojima, even a quiet afternoon at the harbor is shared with cats (Photo credit: PIXTA)

Whether visiting for a few hours or staying overnight, Tashirojima invites travelers to slow down and experience island life at a gentler pace. Watching cats wander the fishing harbors, meeting local residents and following quiet woodland paths reminds us that some of the best journeys are simply about sharing in the everyday life of a place—even if, on this island, that everyday life includes a few more cats than usual.

For more details, contact DMC Japan to discuss ideas, locations and rates.
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