Tashiro Island

Tashirojima Island, also known as Cat Island, is a small island located in Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. The island is famous for its large population of feral cats, which outnumber human inhabitants by a considerable margin.

The cats on Tashirojima Island are believed to bring good luck and are cherished by the island’s residents. The cats are friendly and used to human interaction, and many of them are fed and cared for by the island’s residents.

Visitors to Tashirojima Island can spend time observing and interacting with the cats, who are known for their unique personalities and quirky behaviors. The island also features beautiful scenery and walking trails, making it a great destination for nature lovers.

The island has a cat shrine, where cats are enshrined as deities believed to bring good fortune. There are also cat-themed accommodations and cafes, making it a paradise for cat lovers.

Getting there

From Ishinomaki Station to the ferry terminal:

• Walk to Ajishima Line Chuou Port (about 15 minutes)
• Alternatively, take a bus from stop number 2 in front of the station to Kadonowaki Ni-chome (15 minutes, 280 yen)

Take the ferry to Tashirojima:

• Ferries depart from Chuou Port or Kadonowaki Port
• Journey time is about 45 minutes
• One-way fare is 1,250 yen (cash only)
• There are only three departures per day: 9:00, 12:30, and 15:30