On this trip, I visited “Aoshima,” also known as Cat Island, located in Ehime Prefecture. This island is home to more cats than people, making it a true paradise for cat lovers. In this VLOG-style video, I’ll share my real experiences of interacting with the cats, exploring the island’s scenery, and getting a glimpse of life on the island.
1. Access to Aoshima — A Ferry Journey to Cat Island
To reach Aoshima, take a train to Iyo-Nagahama Station in Ehime Prefecture, then hop on a ferry to the island. The train ride takes about an hour, offering relaxing views of peaceful countryside landscapes through the window. From Iyo-Nagahama Station, two ferry trips run daily, with the 30-minute ride costing ¥700 (approximately $5.27) one way.
Once aboard the ferry, the sea breeze feels refreshing, and the anticipation builds as you get closer to the island. However, the ferry can sway a bit if the waves are high, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s a good idea to bring some motion sickness medicine. Keep in mind that the island has no shops, vending machines, or accommodations, so make sure to bring essentials like drinks and cat food beforehand.
2. Arrival at Aoshima — First Encounter with the Cats
After a 30-minute ferry ride, I arrived at Aoshima, where a few cats were already waiting to greet me at the dock. The island is home to over 100 cats, and since they are accustomed to visitors, they are incredibly friendly. As I approached to interact with them, it felt as though they were warmly welcoming me to their home.
First, I headed to the “feeding area,” where the island’s cats tend to gather. This is a designated spot where visitors can feed the cats, following specific rules. When I offered food to them, they all gathered around at once—it was incredibly adorable! However, small scuffles sometimes break out among the cats over food, and I even got a surprise “cat punch” from an overenthusiastic feline! Unexpected moments like these add to the fun and unique memories of Cat Island.
3. Exploring the Island — A Relaxing Time with the Cats
Aoshima may not be a large island, but it’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Walking alongside the cats, you’ll find them relaxing in various spots around the island, and it’s easy to lose track of time as you enjoy the slow pace. The highlight is the shrine on a hilltop, where you can take in a panoramic view of the island and the stunning scenery of the Seto Inland Sea, all while watching the cats roam around. The combination of the beautiful landscape and the presence of these cats creates a truly peaceful and memorable experience.
At the shrine, I prayed for the cats’ health and happiness. Just as I finished, one cat approached me, making it feel as though my wish had already been granted. Around the shrine, there are cats of all different fur colors—brown, black, white—living together in harmony. Simply observing their unique expressions and personalities is a joy in itself.
4. I returned to the ferry once to stock up on cat food at Iyo-Nagahama.
After feeding the cats generously, I quickly ran out of food sooner than expected. So, I decided to take the ferry back to Iyo-Nagahama Port to purchase more cat food from a nearby local shop. This store caters to tourists, offering not only local specialties but also cat food. Many visitors heading to Aoshima stop here to stock up on supplies for their feline friends on the island.
After returning to Aoshima with the newly purchased food, the cats eagerly gathered around once again, full of energy. It became clear to me that thanks to the support of tourists, the cats are able to live comfortably on the island. When visiting Cat Island, preparation like this is essential to fully enjoy the experience of interacting with the cats.
5. The Reality of the Island — Aging Cats and Conservation Efforts
The cats of Aoshima were once said to number over 200, but their population has now decreased to around 100. This is due to the implementation of spaying and neutering programs, aimed at controlling their reproduction. Most of the cats are elderly, and with no new kittens being born, the number of cats on the island is destined to gradually decline.
Additionally, the island’s human population is aging, with only three residents currently living on Aoshima. These residents help support the cats’ lives while warmly welcoming tourists and working to ensure the cats can live comfortably. Volunteer groups also visit the island regularly, providing food and medical care for the cats. Tourists are encouraged to follow rules for feeding and to respect the island’s environment, adhering to proper etiquette during their visits.
6. Meeting the Famous Cat “Dokin-chan”
The most famous cat on Aoshima is “Dokin-chan,” known for her markings that resemble the anime character of the same name. She’s a symbolic figure on the island. However, since Dokin-chan is elderly and rarely ventures outside, whether you can meet her or not is a matter of luck. With the help of a local resident, I was fortunate enough to meet Dokin-chan during my visit. Her graceful presence made me appreciate the charm of Aoshima’s cats even more.
7. Accommodation and Delicious Local Meals
Since Aoshima has no accommodation options, I chose to stay at a nearby guesthouse. The price was very reasonable at ¥7,000 (approximately $53) for a night, including both breakfast and dinner. I enjoyed meals made with fresh local ingredients, with standout dishes like sashimi and fried horse mackerel, as well as karaage (fried chicken). Each dish was absolutely delicious, helping to soothe the fatigue of the trip. Reflecting on my interactions with the island’s cats while savoring the local cuisine made for a truly blissful experience.
Summary
Aoshima in Ehime Prefecture is a dream destination for cat lovers, offering countless opportunities to interact with the island’s many feline residents. However, by also learning about the challenges the cats face and the lives of the island’s residents, we can appreciate the efforts that sustain this paradise. When visiting Aoshima, be sure to follow the rules and consider participating in support activities to help maintain the cats’ happy lives. Time spent on Aoshima promises to be a peaceful and heartwarming experience, not just for cat lovers, but for anyone seeking tranquility. Why not add Aoshima to your next travel destination?
