How to get to the Cat Island in Japan? - briefly
To reach Tashirojima, commonly known as Cat Island in Japan, you need to take a ferry from Ishinomaki Port in Miyagi Prefecture. The journey typically involves a train ride to Ishinomaki Station followed by a short taxi or bus ride to the port, where ferries depart to the island. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Travel to Ishinomaki Station via the JR Senseki Line from Sendai Station. The train journey takes approximately 60-70 minutes.
- From Ishinomaki Station, take a taxi or bus to Ishinomaki Port, which is about a 15-minute drive.
- At Ishinomaki Port, board a ferry to Tashirojima. The ferry ride takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on the weather and sea conditions. It is advisable to check the ferry schedule in advance, as it can vary by season. Upon arrival, you can explore the island, known for its large population of cats and serene rural landscapes.
How to get to the Cat Island in Japan? - in detail
Cat Island, officially known as Aoshima, is a small, picturesque island located in Ehime Prefecture, Japan. It is renowned for its large population of stray cats, making it a popular destination for cat lovers and tourists alike. To reach Cat Island, one must plan a journey that involves a combination of public transportation and ferry services. Here is a detailed guide on how to get to Cat Island.
The journey typically begins in Takamatsu, a city in Kagawa Prefecture. From Takamatsu, travelers can take a train to the Uno Port. The JR Koto Line connects Takamatsu to Uno Port, and the journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Trains are frequent, and tickets can be purchased at the station or through the Japan Rail Pass if applicable.
Upon arriving at Uno Port, the next step is to take a ferry to Okuishi Port on Shikoku Island. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes and offers scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea. Ferries are operated by Seto Ohasama Ferry and run several times a day. It is advisable to check the ferry schedule in advance, as timings can vary.
Once at Okuishi Port, travelers need to take a bus to the port of Yawatahama. The bus journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes. Buses are operated by Iyotetsu Bus and run regularly. From Yawatahama, another ferry ride is required to reach Cat Island. The ferry to Aoshima departs from the Yawatahama Port and takes about 20-30 minutes. This ferry service is operated by Aoshima Ferry and runs several times a day.
It is important to note that the ferry schedules to Aoshima can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Therefore, it is recommended to check the weather forecast and ferry timetables before planning the trip. Additionally, some ferries may require advance booking, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Upon arrival at Aoshima, visitors will find a small island with a population of more than 100 cats. The island is accessible via a short walk from the ferry dock. There are no accommodations on the island itself, so visitors typically return to the mainland in the evening. However, there are several restaurants and cafes on the island where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and interact with the friendly felines.
In summary, reaching Cat Island involves a combination of train, bus, and ferry rides. Starting from Takamatsu, travelers take a train to Uno Port, then a ferry to Okuishi Port, followed by a bus to Yawatahama, and finally, a ferry to Aoshima. The journey offers beautiful views and a unique experience for cat lovers and tourists seeking a tranquil getaway.