A must-see for cat lovers! Tashirojima, a paradise full of cats in Ishinomaki Bay, Miyagi Prefecture: Information on Tashirojima Island in 2026

  • Miyagi
  • Experience Gifu
Cats taking it easy at Nitoda Port
Do you know what day is February 22 every year? In Japan, it is designated as "Cat Day" derived from the Japanese word "nyan, nyan, nyan. Cat Day was established by the Cat Day Executive Committee and the Pet Food Manufacturers Association (now the Pet Food Association of Japan). Cat Day in 2026 (February 22) is not only a Sunday, but also the middle day of what will be a three-day weekend! This time, we would like to introduce Tashirojima, a cat-filled paradise that cat lovers should visit at least once, located a minimum of 40 minutes from Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture, by regular boat.
Nitoda Port, the gateway to Tashiro Island

More cats than residents⁉Tashirojima, a cat island in Ishinomaki Bay

Tashirojima is a small island in Ishinomaki Bay, Miyagi Prefecture, surrounded by cobalt blue waters. Tashirojima is known as one of the best cat islands in Japan. 46 people (as of the end of March 2025) live on Tashirojima, and it is said that more cats live there than the islanders. Walking around the island, you can see cats living at their own pace everywhere up close, and you will definitely be healed by their appearance.
Cute cats

It takes only 40 minutes from Ishinomaki to Tashirojima by regular boat.

The Ajijima Line, a regular ferry to Tashirojima, can be boarded from the central depot located about a 15-minute walk from Ishinomaki Station, the terminus of the JR Senseki Line, and takes about 40 minutes at the shortest to Tashirojima. There is another Kadonowaki Terminal in Ishinomaki City, but this one is about a 10-minute drive from Ishinomaki Station, so those who come to Ishinomaki Station by train are advised to walk around the city to the Central Terminal and board the boat there.
Please check the schedule of the Amijishima Line from the official website in advance.
Central depot of the Ajijima Line
Amichijima Line official website

Where to go once you land on Tashirojima? I recommend Neko Jinja (Cat Shrine) where the cat god is enshrined.

Nitoda Port with good access to cat spots

There are two ports on Tashiro Island: Odomari Port and Nittoda Port. You can disembark at either port, but if you do not have much time to stay on the island or if you want to see the cats right away, why not disembark at Nitoda Port, located in the south of the island? Near Nitoda Port, there is a restaurant that not only serves food but is also a cat spot where many cats gather, so if you want to enjoy both food and interaction with the cats, disembark at this port.
Cats basking in the sun

Let's learn about the relationship between the islanders and cats at the Cat Shrine

About a 25-minute walk from Nitoda Port is the Neko Shrine, which is dedicated to the god of cats. On Tashiro Island, where fishing is thriving, cats have long been popular as lucky creatures that bring in big catches, and many cats still live here today, cherished by the islanders. Near the Neko Shrine is a famous cat spot where you can eat, and if your timing is good, you can see many cats eating together in front of the restaurant, or if you are lucky, you can see cats relaxing at the shrine. Although it is a little far from the port, please stop by when you visit Tashiro Island.
A black cat from the Neko Shrine relaxing on one's lap

Manga Island," a convenient cat-shaped lodge for overnight stays on the island

Manga Island, located about 1 km from Nitoda Port, is a cat-shaped lodge designed by manga artists Michiko Satonaka and Tetsuya Chiba. This is also a camping facility, where you can enjoy barbecue with a view of the sea! If you wish to stay overnight, please apply in advance through the dedicated page.
*Not available from November to March of the following year.
Manga Island, featuring a cat-shaped lodge Image: Ishinomaki City Tourism Policy Division
Manga Island detailed information (Ishinomaki City website)

Let's be healed by many cats on Tashiro Island!

How was Tashirojima, a paradise for cats in Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture? In recent years, many people visit Tashirojima to catch a glimpse of the cats, not only from Japan but also from overseas. We hope you will spend a relaxing time playing with many cats! Ishinomaki City, where the Tashirojima-bound liner arrives and departs, is also full of attractions. Near the central terminal is Ishinomaki Genki Ichiba, where you can buy local foods, and Ishinomori Manga-kan, one of the famous sightseeing spots in the city.

*To protect the health of the cats living on Tashiro Island, please refrain from feeding or using cat toys on the island.
*Please be aware of your surroundings on the streets, and avoid sitting on the ground or being oblivious to approaching cars.
Please do not enter private property to photograph cats.
Cats relaxing on the road
Introduction to Tashiro Island (Ishinomaki City website)

Combine your favorite train with lodging or a day trip plan for a great travel experience!

You can make your own original trip!

JR East View Dynamic Rail Package is a variable price individual travel product available only on the web. Depending on the timing and conditions of your application, you may be able to get a discount as early as the day of departure. We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own unique trip according to your schedule and purpose.
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