Tashirojima Island

Tashirojima is a small island in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, located approximately 11 kilometers off the Oshika Peninsula in the Pacific Ocean. The island spans roughly 3.14 square kilometers and has a population of fewer than 100 residents, most of whom are elderly. Tashirojima earned its nickname "Cat Island" due to its unusually large population of feral cats, which significantly outnumber the human inhabitants.

The island's association with cats dates back to the Edo period when silkworm farming was a primary industry. Fishermen kept cats to protect the silkworms from mice, and over time, the cats became regarded as good luck charms for fishing prosperity. This belief led to the construction of Neko-jinja (Cat Shrine) in the central part of the island, where locals pray for safety at sea and bountiful catches. The cats are fed by residents and visitors alike, and the island has maintained a no-dog policy to protect the feline population.

Visitors to Tashirojima can observe and interact with dozens of friendly cats that roam freely around the two main ports, Nitoda and Odomari. The island features cat-themed accommodations called Manga Island, a cluster of cabin-style lodges shaped like cats, built as part of a manga artist retreat project. Walking trails connect the two ports and offer scenic coastal views, though the terrain is hilly and requires moderate physical fitness. The island has minimal tourist infrastructure with no restaurants, convenience stores, or car rental services, so visitors should bring their own food and supplies.

Access to Tashirojima is via ferry from Ishinomaki Port on the mainland. The Ajishima Line ferry operates daily with trips taking approximately 40 to 50 minutes, stopping at both Nitoda and Odomari ports. Round-trip ferry tickets cost around 2,500 to 3,000 yen for adults. Ferry schedules are limited, typically offering two to three departures per day, so visitors should plan their trip carefully and confirm schedules in advance, especially during winter months when services may be reduced.