About
Aoshima (Cat Island)
Aoshima, also known as "Cat Island," is a small island located in the Seto Inland Sea, part of Ozu City in Ehime Prefecture, Japan. The island covers an area of approximately 0.49 square kilometers and has a circumference of about 4.2 kilometers. As of the 2020 census, the human population was recorded at five residents. (hanarejima.com)
Historically, Aoshima gained fame for its large feline population, which at one point numbered around 200 cats. This led to the island being dubbed "Cat Island" and attracted numerous tourists, especially cat enthusiasts. However, in 2018, a mass spaying and neutering campaign was conducted to control the cat population, resulting in a gradual decrease in their numbers. (doubutukikin.or.jp)
Access to Aoshima is via a ferry from Nagahama Port in Ozu City. The ferry operates two round trips daily, with a journey time of approximately 35 minutes. Given the limited number of seats and the popularity of the destination, especially during holidays, it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. (mapple.net)
Visitors should note that Aoshima lacks commercial facilities such as shops, restaurants, and vending machines. Therefore, it's essential to bring your own food and drinks. Additionally, there are no accommodations on the island, so all visits are day trips. To ensure a harmonious experience for both residents and visitors, it's important to adhere to local guidelines, such as feeding cats only in designated areas and taking all trash back with you. (mapple.net)
While the cat population has declined, Aoshima remains a unique destination where visitors can enjoy the serene environment and interact with the resident felines.