Imagine an idyllic island where cats casually outnumber humans and feline shrines dot fishing villages. This is Aoshima, a tiny island in southern Japan’s Ehime Prefecture known as the “Cat Island” for its abundant stray cat population. Beloved by cat lovers and tourists, Aoshima is a quaint haven seemingly tailor-made for its furry inhabitants. Let’s delve into this quirky island, the story behind its feline takeover, and highlights for visitors.
History and Origins of the Cat Population
Cats are believed to have been introduced to Aoshima by fishermen around the Edo period to control mice on fishing boats. Over generations, the cats multiplied and assimilated as part of island life. By the mid 1900s, permanent human residents on the tiny 0.7 square mile island dwindled to only a few elderly people. But the cat population continued thriving to an estimated one hundred plus felines. Today, only around 15 people live on Aoshima year-round, happily outnumbered at least 7 to 1 by the island’s cats. Local culture embraces the ubiquitous felines warmly. Mini cat shrines with offerings dot houses along the coastline, symbolizing protective guardian spirits. After all, cats deserve worship for keeping Aoshima mouse-free!
Tourism Draws Visitors
Despite lying off the beaten track from major cities, Cat Island has drawn intrepid animal lovers out to this rural pocket of Japan’s sleepy Ehime. Photos and videos circulating online in recent years sparked viral buzz about the island, nicknamed “Cat Heaven.” Aoshima shot up in global must-visit lists for cat enthusiasts. Visitors come mainly for the sheer joy of being surrounded by playful stray cats begging affection as they relax seaside and explore villages. On walks around the island, expect your path to be frequently blocked by languidly loafing felines sprawled out for naps. Locals relish the tourism uptick from this distinctly Japanese quirky animal haven.
Get Your Cat Fix
To visit Cat Island, a ferry ride from the mainland port city of Mihara is required. While lacking major amenities, Aoshima provides a peaceful retreat ideal for photographers and nature lovers wanting their cat fix. Several guesthouses cater to overnight tourists. Visitors are advised to travel during mild seasons, as access is sometimes suspended during typhoons or very cold weather. Otherwise, prepare for a heartwarming rendezvous. With its laidback seaside scenery and plentiful kitty companions around every corner, Aoshima indeed feels like a playful paradise tailor-made for cats…and the people who love them.
In this charming island where felines reign supreme, cats and humans harmoniously share sun-kissed harbors and footpaths linking thatched cottages. May the old gods watch over these friendly guardians lazing seaside and beckoning new friends with flicking tails and sandpaper kisses.
With its unique history spawning a sparsely populated village where stray cats run joyously free, Aoshima fully deserves its idyllic reputation as Cat Heaven. This quirky island offers the quintessential offbeat Japan experience – best enjoyed while making new furry friends along the way!
