While the neon lights of Tokyo and the cherry blossoms of Kyoto often steal the limelight, there's no denying the allure of 'Japan's cat island', Aoshima.
In fact, 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.
It is probably the most famous cat island in Japan.
Getting there takes some effort, but the journey is worth it for cat lovers.
Travelers usually start their journey from Tokyo, with a two-hour flight to Matsuyama Airport.
From there, a one-hour train ride on the JR Yosan Line takes you to Io-Nagahama Train Station.
A short 10-minute walk leads to Nagahama Port, where a 35-minute boat ride connects you to Aoshima's cat island.
Please check the boat schedule as the service is affected by weather conditions.
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10 things you should know about Aoshima Cat Island:
Aoshima is a tiny paradise.
The width of the island is less than 2 kilometers and it is inhabited by only a few dozen human inhabitants.
However, the cat population here thrives, and is estimated at over 200 cats, making them the true rulers of the island.
Upon reaching this peaceful realm, it is important to be prepared.
Aoshima does not offer shops, cafes, toilets, accommodation or vending machines, so visitors must bring all necessities with them.
Public toilets are only available at the ferry terminal.
By the way, there are no trash cans here either.
No one comes here to see cats rummaging through garbage cans, what's more, their diet on the island is regulated and of high quality.
The cats in Oshima are semi-feral but generally very friendly and enjoy meeting and playing with visitors.
While feeding them is allowed in designated areas, it is recommended to do so with small amounts of cat food.
Playing with toys can make the meeting with you even more memorable.
For an unforgettable experience, bring toys to keep these furry residents busy.
Remember that Aoshima is no ordinary tourist attraction, so respecting the laws of the island and its human and feline inhabitants is of utmost importance.
Aoshima has no public transportation, so comfortable walking shoes are essential to explore the island's corners.
Due to the stray nature of the cats, remember to wash your hands after interacting with them.
Visitors can contribute to the welfare of Aoshima's cats by donating to the residents who care for them.
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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.
The future of Aoshima is uncertain due to the shrinking human population.
The ferry service currently operates for the locals, but if the island becomes uninhabited (by humans), the service may cease.
The Cat Islands in Japan are often referred to as 'Neko Shima', and Oshima is one of the most well known of them.
Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, boat tours offer captivating views of this feline paradise.
Efforts are being made to neuter the cats, and adoption opportunities are available.
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How do spaying and neutering contribute to the well-being of cats?
Neutering (for male cats) and spaying (for female cats) is a crucial practice in the responsible care of cats that contributes significantly to their well-being in several ways:
Population control
: Stray and feral cats can breed quickly, leading to overpopulation and overcrowded shelters.
Neutering helps reduce the number of unwanted puppies born, ultimately reducing burdens and euthanasia.
Health benefits
: Spaying female cats reduces the risk of uterine infections, tumors in the mammary glands and eliminates the possibility of ovarian and uterine cancer.
Neutering male cats reduces the risk of testicular cancer and may lower the likelihood of certain behavioral health problems, such as fighting injuries.
Improving behavior
: Neutering can lead to balanced and manageable behavior in cats.
Non-neutered male cats are more prone to aggressive behaviors, wandering and marking territory with urine.
Neutering can help reduce fights and injuries that transmit disease.
Reduced roaming
: Unneutered male cats are more likely to move around in search of females, which increases their exposure to danger.
Neutering can help keep cats closer to home and reduce the risk of stray-related accidents and injuries.
Preventing unplanned litters
: Spaying prevents unintended litters of kittens, which minimizes the burden on the resources needed to care for and house these kittens.
Improved social behavior
: neutered cats often exhibit a sociable and more lovable behavior.
They may be less territorial and more likely to get along with cats and other pets in their environment, leading to a more harmonious living environment.
Longer life expectancy
: Neutered cats may have a longer life expectancy because they are at lower risk of certain health problems and are less likely to engage in risky behaviors that could lead to injury or disease transmission.
Contribution to the well-being of the community
: In cases where community cats (feral or stray) are captured, neutered and returned to their environment (a practice known as TNR, Trap-Neuter-Return), this helps to stabilize and reduce the wild cat population.
Overtime.
This approach is a humane and effective way to manage feral cat colonies while improving their overall welfare.
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The history of Aoshima
Making Aoshima Japan's most famous cat island has a unique history.
In the 1940s, it was a thriving fishing village with a population of 900 people.
Cats were brought here to deal with the plague of mice that were causing damage to the fishermen.
However, as the fishing industry declined (which is true in many parts of the world), so did the number of human inhabitants.
Mostly the cats were left behind.
Their population thrived in the absence of humans, resulting in today's big cat commune.
Today, only about 20 residents over the age of 50 remain on the island, who diligently care for their furry companions.
Aoshima's fame as Japan's cat island grew through social media, with visitors sharing photos and videos of their magical encounters.
To ensure the island's future in the absence of human inhabitants, a comprehensive neutering program for the cats was introduced.
Other cat islands in Japan
Aoshima, as mentioned, is not the only cat kingdom in the land of the rising sun.
The cat population here is particularly high.
Several cities and islands celebrate the feline presence, which adds charm to their communities.
Here are some notable cat locations:
Chirojima
: Located in Miyagi Prefecture, Chirojima is the second most famous cat island in Japan.
This rural island, accessible by a one-hour ferry ride from the city of Ishinomaki, is home to hundreds of cats, and visitors can often find them lounging around Nitoda Harbor.
Aijima
: Located in Fukuoka Prefecture on the Sea of Japan, Aijima is easily accessible, with the Shinkansen bullet train stopping a short walk from Kokura Port, where a boat leaves for the island.
Enoshima
: The closest cat island to Tokyo, Enoshima in Kanagawa Prefecture offers a comfortable escape from the bustling capital.
Okishima
: Located in Shiga Prefecture, Okishima is a floating island in the middle of a lake.
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