Cat Cafe & Cat Island Japan Guide | Discover Japanese Cat Culture

A Must for Cat Lovers: Discover Japan’s Unique Bond with Cats

Japan has long had a deep affection for cats—there’s even a phrase, “neko kawaigari,” which means to pamper a cat with love and care. In Japanese culture, cats are seen not only as pets but also as symbols of good fortune, independence, and charm.

Across Japan, you’ll find famous “cat islands” like Aoshima and Tashirojima, where cats roam freely through streets and harbors, living in harmony with local communities. For many visitors, these islands are true pilgrimage spots for cat lovers.

In the cities, it’s easy to enjoy Japan’s cat culture at cat cafes and rescue cat cafes, or while browsing charming cat-themed shops and art galleries. Whether it’s through a spontaneous encounter or a planned stop on your trip, discovering Japan’s unique relationship with cats will add a little extra magic to your journey.

Your Pilgrimage Begins: Exploring Japan’s Sacred Cat Sites

Japan is home to several “cat sanctuaries” that many cat lovers dream of visiting. There are quiet islands like Tashirojima (Miyagi), Sakushima (Aichi), and Ogijima (Kagawa), where cats live peacefully alongside locals. In Onomichi, Hiroshima, feline charm hides in the narrow backstreets. And in Tokyo, the Yanaka area in Taito Ward is known for blending a nostalgic townscape with a relaxed cat-friendly vibe.
Below, we introduce a selection of places where people and cats share everyday life in unique and meaningful ways.

Notice
Tashirojima is a small island known for its special connection with cats and its cherished cat shrine. Thanks to social media and other platforms, the island has recently gained attention from visitors both in Japan and abroad.
To help preserve the peaceful environment and protect the well-being of the cats, we kindly ask that dogs not be brought onto the island, except for service dogs. Thank you for your understanding.

Tashirojima (Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture)

“Lucky Island” Where Cats Are Honored

Tashirojima, located in Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture, is internationally known as “Cat Island,” where cats are said to outnumber humans. Cats have long been considered guardians of fishermen and are still deeply respected by locals today. A shrine dedicated to cats can be found on the island, symbolizing this unique bond.
Visitors arrive by ferry to discover a small, peaceful island where cats roam freely along the ports and alleyways. Many are friendly and may even approach you with curiosity. In recent years, Tashirojima has gained popularity on social media and is now a beloved destination for cat lovers from Japan and abroad. Surrounded by calm seas and quiet scenery, you can enjoy simple, heartwarming moments with the island’s feline residents.

【Notice】
Tashirojima is known for its strong cultural ties to cats and is home to a cat shrine. As the island’s environment is carefully protected, dogs are not permitted except for service animals. Thank you for your understanding.

Getting to Tashirojima

Sakushima (Nishio City, Aichi Prefecture)

Sakushima — An Island Where Art and Cats Coexist

Sakushima, located in Nishio City, Aichi Prefecture, is a scenic island floating in Mikawa Bay, known for its outdoor contemporary art installations scattered throughout the landscape. It is also beloved by cat lovers, as many relaxed cats can be found especially around Nishiko Port and Omura Beach, adding a peaceful charm to the island.
One of its most iconic artworks, the “Ohirune House” (Nap House) on the Ishigaki Coast, gained extra attention when it appeared in the Detective Conan movieThe Lost Ship in the Sky. This has made Sakushima a minor pilgrimage site for anime fans as well.
With its unique blend of art, nature, friendly felines, and anime connections, Sakushima offers visitors a special and inspiring experience that stirs the imagination and invites slow, curious exploration.

Getting to Sakushima

Cat Alley (Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture)

A Quiet World of Cats Hidden in the Backstreets

Cat Alley in Onomichi, Hiroshima, is a narrow sloping path that winds from Ushitora Shrine to Tenneiji Temple—a must-visit for fans of cat-themed art.
Lining the alley are whimsical “Fukuishi Neko” (Lucky Stone Cats), created by local artist Haruji Sonoyama. These unique cat sculptures seem to gently invite passersby to explore deeper into the path.
Whether or not you encounter a real cat depends on your luck, but the walk itself is full of charm. Along the way, you’ll also find fun stops like the Maneki Neko Museum and “Fukurō no Yakata,” a traditional house-turned-cafe—perfect places to pause and soak in the slow, cat-like pace of Onomichi.

Getting to Neko no Hosomichi (Cat Alley)

Ogijima (Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture)

A Peaceful Island of Cats and Contemporary Art

About 40 minutes by ferry from Takamatsu City, Ogijima is a small island floating in the Seto Inland Sea, known for its peaceful fishing village charm and free-roaming cats. Around the port and through the narrow alleyways of the village, you’ll often find friendly felines relaxing and warming the hearts of passing travelers.
Ogijima is also one of the venues for the Setouchi Triennale, with unique contemporary artworks scattered throughout the island. Exploring these pieces nestled within the calm scenery of the sea and town, while encountering cats along the way, creates a truly special experience.
The island’s steep terrain and many stone steps are part of its character. As the sea breeze blows and curious cat eyes seem to guide your path, a stroll through Ogijima becomes an unforgettable memory of your journey.

Getting to Ogijima

Yanaka Ginza (Taito City, Tokyo)

A Bustling Old Town Beloved by Cat Lovers

Yanaka Ginza is a charming old-fashioned shopping street in Taito City, Tokyo, often referred to as a “cat town” and a must-visit for cat lovers. Throughout the neighborhood, you’ll find shops and sweets stores featuring cat-themed goods, as well as cat statues and decorations hidden in plain sight.
One standout is Manekineko Yanaka-do, a specialty shop known for its handmade lucky cat figurines crafted by designers—it’s even popular with visitors from overseas. The shop also features a cafe where you can try your hand at painting your own one-of-a-kind maneki-neko to take home.
The entire community takes pride in its connection to cats, promoting feline charm as part of the local culture and tourism. Located just a short walk from Nippori Station, Yanaka offers easy access and a rare chance to enjoy both cat encounters and the nostalgic atmosphere of Tokyo’s traditional neighborhoods.

Getting to Yanaka Ginza

Can’t Make It to a Cat Sanctuary? Start Right Here in Tokyo

Japan is home to many “cat sanctuaries” that every cat lover dreams of visiting. But let’s face it—most of them are tucked away on remote islands or in regional towns, making them a bit tricky to reach. That’s why next, we’re introducing a selection of cat-themed shops you can easily visit right here in Tokyo. All are accessible by train, so use this list as your guide to a fun and easy cat-themed adventure in the city.