How do I get to Ainoshima Cat Island from Fukuoka?

To reach Ainoshima Cat Island, take the ferry from Shingu Port in Fukuoka. The ferry ride takes about 20 minutes and costs approximately 230 yen one way. Ferries run several times daily, but check the current schedule as it varies by season.

What is the best time to visit Ainoshima Cat Island?

The best time to visit Ainoshima is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild. Early morning or late afternoon are ideal for cat watching, as the cats are more active during cooler parts of the day.

Can you feed the cats on Ainoshima Island?

While feeding cats on Ainoshima is not officially prohibited, visitors should be respectful and avoid overfeeding. The local community maintains feeding stations, and excessive tourist feeding can disrupt the cats' diet and behavior. Always use appropriate cat food if you choose to feed them.

Are there hotels or accommodations on Ainoshima Cat Island?

Ainoshima has very limited accommodation options as it's a small fishing island with around 200 residents. Most visitors take day trips from Fukuoka. For overnight stays, consider accommodations in nearby Shingu or return to Fukuoka city for a wider selection of hotels.

What else can you do on Ainoshima besides seeing cats?

Besides the famous cats, Ainoshima offers scenic coastal walks, traditional Japanese fishing village atmosphere, local seafood at small eateries, and beautiful sunset views. The island also has historical sites and provides insight into rural Japanese island life.

Fukuoka

Ainoshima Island, Shingu

4.4 (529)IslandNatural FeatureEstablishment

Last updated Aug 7, 2026

Ainoshima Island, located in the Shibushi Bay off the coast of Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, has earned its reputation as one of Japan's "cat islands." The island's feline population dramatically increased after 1945, when cats were introduced to control rodents in the local fishing industry. Today, cats outnumber human residents by approximately six to one, with the island's human population standing at roughly 200 people while an estimated 1,200 cats roam freely across the island.

The island serves as a living example of harmonious coexistence between humans, animals, and nature. The cats have become a defining characteristic of Ainoshima, attracting visitors who seek unique wildlife encounters in an authentic fishing village setting. Unlike more commercialized destinations, Ainoshima maintains its traditional character as a working fishing community, offering visitors a glimpse into rural Japanese island life alongside interactions with its friendly cat population.

Visitors can explore the island on foot, as it measures approximately 500 meters in diameter and can be walked around in roughly 30 minutes. The experience centers on observing and photographing the cats in their natural environment, wandering through narrow village lanes, and enjoying coastal views. The island features a small shrine, traditional fishermen's houses, and scenic walking paths. Visitors should bring their own food and water, as the island has no shops, restaurants, or vending machines. Feeding the cats is permitted, though visitors are encouraged to bring appropriate cat food rather than human snacks.

Ferry service to Ainoshima operates from Shingu Port in Fukuoka, with the journey taking approximately 23 minutes. Shingu Port is accessible via train on the JR Kashii Line to Saitozaki Station, followed by a 15-minute walk to the port. Ferries run several times daily, though schedules vary by season and weather conditions. There is no admission fee to visit the island itself. Visitors should plan their trip carefully around ferry schedules to ensure return transportation, and should respect the island's residents by keeping noise levels down and disposing of all trash properly.

Overview

Address

Ainoshima Island, Ainoshima, Shingu, Kasuya District, Fukuoka 811-0118, Japan

Places & attractions near Ainoshima Island, Shingu

Akizuki Castle Ruins, Asakura

Shiranoe Botanical Gardens, Kitakyushu

Okinoshima Island, Munakata

Chikugogawa Onsen, Ukiha

Places & attractions near Ainoshima Island, Shingu

Akizuki Castle Ruins, Asakura

Shiranoe Botanical Gardens, Kitakyushu

Okinoshima Island, Munakata

Chikugogawa Onsen, Ukiha

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

One of the highlights on my trip in Japan! I loved all the cats that I could have pet, the walk around the island, and then a nice meal set lunch I had in a restaurant close to the port. A truly nicely killed day for me.

Jana Krištanová

Jun 9, 2026

Been here twice and still loving it! I personally love the part you alight from ferry and turn left side of the island. Beautiful scenery and beautiful friendly cats! Do be careful there are cats who will scratch still but most of them are very friendly and docile. ❤️ Went end Dec and it’s quite cold but the cats are still very clingy. ❤️ The cats near the port on the main island are super adorable too! 😍 You can bring cat food but please bring a long a plate/bowl and make sure you keep the area clean. Also do take all trash with you. I brought it back to mainland to dispose it. 😊

The cats here are very chill and well-fed. I like how volunteers rent toys, and sell cat food & treats for tourists.

Lovely and cosy island to relax with comfortable breeze. Spend a few hours to explore and feel how villagers and the cats live. Saw probably around 50 cats, super friendly and eager to meet visitors. Local elementary school is out of bounds but interesting to check out from afar.

I was here in february 2026. I spent 5 hlura of the island, all with the cats. There's about 30 cats that I could see, all around the harbor itaelf. I only had to walk down the street in both directions for a few metres to be greeted by the next friendly cat. They loved getting pet and snacks and are easy to take photos with. Dependung on when you go, you might need to bring your own food and drinks.