Ishinomaki, Japan
Tashirojima (Cat Island)
Japan's famous "Cat Island" where felines outnumber people.
Before you go
- Ferries run seasonally and may be cancelled in bad weather. Check the Ajishima Line timetable and service updates before you go.
About Tashirojima (Cat Island)
A small island off Ishinomaki in Miyagi Prefecture, where cats roam freely through the villages and harbor. For decades it has drawn cat lovers from across Japan and around the world.
How to get to Tashirojima (Cat Island)
From Sendai, take the JR Senseki Line to Ishinomaki Station (about 1 hour), then continue to Ishinomaki Port and take the Ajishima Line ferry to Tashirojima (about 40–50 minutes). Ferries run seasonally and may be cancelled in bad weather — check the timetable and service updates before you go. Cash is useful for ferry tickets and small purchases on the island.
- From Sendai Station, take the JR Senseki Line to Ishinomaki Station (about 1 hour). From Tokyo, connect via Sendai or follow current JR routes to Ishinomaki.
- From Ishinomaki Station, walk about 15–20 minutes to Ishinomaki Port, or take a local bus or taxi if you prefer.
- Take an Ajishima Line ferry to Tashirojima. The crossing usually takes about 40–50 minutes, depending on whether you arrive at Odomari or Nitoda.
- Start exploring from the ferry terminal. Paths connect villages and cat-friendly spots around the island, so comfortable shoes help.
Ishinomaki Port departures (Ajishima Line) Ferry schedules may change by season or weather. Please check the latest timetable before departure.
Location & map
Open in Google MapsTashirojima (Cat Island) Walking Map
This walking map covers Nitoda Port, Oomari Port, the Cat Shrine, Shima no Eki, Manga Island, restaurants, and accommodations on Tashirojima (Cat Island). Locations are approximate. Please check the latest opening hours and ferry service updates before your visit.
Tashirojima (Cat Island) Spot Guide
Visited October 2025
I visited Tashirojima, a cat island in Ishinomaki, Miyagi — partly to shoot screenshots for MeowSnap, partly on a trip with my parents.
We only had about two hours there, and a little mishap along the way, but even so, it was a place that left me feeling calm.
I've written about it in more detail on the blog.
Related articles
More cat islands
Ainoshima (Cat Island)
Shingu, Japan
Japan's "other" cat island — a 20-minute ferry from Shingu port in Fukuoka.
Aoshima (Cat Island)
Ozu, Japan
One of Japan's most famous cat islands — cats famously outnumber residents here.
Manabeshima (Cat Island)
Kasaoka, Japan
A nostalgic fishing island in the Seto Inland Sea — also known as a film location and cat island.
Ogijima
Takamatsu, Japan
A Setouchi art island known for steep slopes and triennale works — village cats are a pleasant bonus along the way.
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