Japan has no less than 11 'cat islands' that offer visitors a rare opportunity to be part of a world where cats roam freely, and humans are the only guests. In these islands the population of humans is much less than that of cats.

Aoshima, a tiny island in Ahema Prefecture in the south of the country, takes center stage. The island's isolation means winters can be tough on the cat population, so consider planning your visit during the colder months when food may be scarce.