Tashirojima: The Isle of Purrs
Discover Tashirojima: Japan's enchanting Cat Island where feline residents roam free, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm.
Tashirojima, affectionately known as Cat Island, is a small island off the coast of Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, famed for its thriving population of felines who outnumber the human residents. Originally brought to control rodents in silkworm farms, the cats are now cared for and revered by the island's inhabitants, who believe they bring good luck and fortune.
A brief summary to Tashirojima
- Tashirohama, Ishinomaki, Tashirohama, Miyagi, JP
Local tips
- Bring your own food and drinks, as there are limited options on the island.
- Take all your trash with you to help preserve the island's environment.
- Check the ferry schedule in advance, as there are only a few departures per day.
- Respect the local culture and the cats by not feeding them and avoiding any behavior that might disturb them.
- Consider staying overnight at Manga Island for a unique cat-themed experience.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Tashirojima, start at Ishinomaki Station in Miyagi Prefecture. From Sendai Station, take the JR Senseki Line to Ishinomaki Station (approximately 1 hour, 840 yen). Alternatively, a highway bus from Sendai Station to Ishinomaki Station takes about 80 minutes and costs 1000 yen. From Ishinomaki Station, walk 15 minutes or take a 5-minute taxi (approximately 1000 yen) to the Ajishima Line Chuo ferry pier. Board the Ajishima Line ferry to Tashirojima. The ferry ride takes 45-60 minutes and costs 1250 yen one way. The ferry stops at two ports on Tashirojima: Odomari and Nitoda. Check the ferry schedule in advance as there are only 3-4 round trips per day. A round trip ferry ticket costs 2500 yen. Be aware that ferry schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions.
Discover more about Tashirojima
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