Kaminoseki, Japan
Iwaishima (Cat Island)
A heart-shaped island in the Seto Inland Sea — one of Yamaguchi's quieter cat islands.
Before you go
- From Yanai Port there are typically two round trips a day; from Murotsu Port, about three. A Yanai–Yanai round trip can mean a short stay — combining Yanai and Murotsu often gives more time ashore. Check the latest timetable and service status before you go.
About Iwaishima (Cat Island)
A small island in the Suo Nada off Kaminoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture, known for its heart-shaped outline when seen from above. An estimated 50 or so cats live among the stone-walled nerihei lanes and harbor of this quiet fishing village. Less crowded than Tashirojima or Aoshima, it suits travelers who prefer a slower walk.
Highlights include the village's nerihei walls, Mr. Taira's terraced rice fields (about an hour on foot), and sunset views over Miura Bay on the far side of the island. Bike rental (Charinko House) is available near the pier.
Note: The island is also known for a long-running local campaign against a proposed nuclear power plant on the opposite shore.
How to get to Iwaishima (Cat Island)
Take the regular ferry "Iwai" from Yanai Port (about 70 minutes; JR Yanai Port Station is a 3-minute walk) or from Murotsu Port (about 40 minutes; free parking at Michi-no-Eki Kaminoseki Kaikyo). The boat also stops at Kaminoseki, Kamai, and Yondai depending on the sailing. Schedules are limited (typically three sailings a day) — check the official Kaminoseki Town ferry timetable before you go. Cash is useful for the ferry and on the island.
- From Hiroshima or Tokuyama, take the JR Sanyo Line to Yanai Port Station (or Yanai Station if using the bus to Murotsu).
- Walk about 3 minutes from Yanai Port Station to Yanai Port, or take a Bocho Bus from Yanai Station to Murotsu Port (Michi-no-Eki Kaminoseki Kaikyo).
- Take the ferry "Iwai" to Iwaishima (about 70 minutes from Yanai, about 40 minutes from Murotsu).
- Explore on foot from the ferry landing — cats are often seen around the nerihei lanes. Bike rental is near the pier for Miura Bay.
Yanai / Murotsu departures (ferry "Iwai") Ferry schedules may change by season or weather. Please check the latest timetable before departure.
Location & map
Open in Google MapsIwaishima (Cat Island) Walking Map
This walking map covers the ferry landing, nerihei village lanes, Mr. Taira's terraced fields, Miura Bay, and other highlights on Iwaishima in Yamaguchi. Locations are approximate. Please check the latest ferry schedule before your visit.
Iwaishima (Cat Island) Spot Guide
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