Tashirojima, often referred to as “Cat Island,” is a charming destination located about 30 minutes by boat from Ishinomaki. The island is famous for its large population of friendly cats, which have become an iconic part of the island’s appeal.
1.Location and how to get to Tashirojima (Cat Island)
Tashirojima is located in Ishinomaki, Miyagi Prefecture.
It takes about 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours by train from Tokyo to Ishinomaki. cost approx 78 usd (12360 jpy) [as 1usd = 157 jpy].
(Tokyo Station to Sendai Station on the Tohoku Shinkansen : about 1 hour 30 minutes ,
+ Sendai Station to Ishinomaki Station on the Senseki Tohoku Line : 1 hour )
Once you arrive at Ishinomaki Station, you can take a ferry from the ferry terminal near the station, which takes about 30 to 45 minutes to the island. However, the boat leaves around 9am, so you’ll need to stay overnight in Ishinomaki.
Tashirojima is in Ishinomaki, the same city as Guesthouse Kamome, but you can get to the island by ferry.
You’ll need to board a ferry operated by Ajishima Line.
The trip takes about 30 to 60 minutes one way, depending on whether you’re going there or back.
Island map
*There are few shops on the island, so we recommend that you buy drinks and food in advance and bring them with you.
→The closest convenience store to Guesthouse Kamome: Family Mart Ishinomaki Izumicho Branch
2.Ferry Terminal
Ishinomaki)
There are two places to board the ferry in Ishinomaki.
Ajishima Line Ishinomaki Central Terminal and Ajishima Line Kadowaki Terminal.
From Guesthouse Kamome, Ishinomaki Central Terminal is about a 10-minute walk.
The Central Terminal is located in the center of the city, and has a beautiful view of the Kitakami River.
If you are traveling by car, Kadowaki Terminal, which has free parking, is convenient.
It is about a 10-minute drive from the guesthouse.
▼Ajishima Line Ishinomaki Chuo(Central) Termina
▼Ajishima Line Kadowaki Terminal.
Tashirojima)
There are two ferry terminals on Tashirojima: Otomari Port and Nitoda Port.
・Otomari Port in Tashiro Cat Island
Otomari Port is the starting point for cat-loving tourists to visit “Cat Island.” Surrounded by calm waters, this port symbolizes the tranquil atmosphere of Tashirojima. There are not many cats around this port, but you will be happy if you happen to spot one.
・Nitoda Port in Tashiro Cat Island
Nitoda Port is the gateway to Tashirojima tourism, and is a port with convenient access to the island’s station, where many cats gather. You can easily find cats relaxing around the port. There are many attractions on the island within walking distance, and many spots that are especially irresistible for cat lovers. After getting off the ferry, please enjoy a relaxing moment with the quiet scenery and the welcoming cats.
3.Recommended route
First, get off at Otomari Port and walk around the island to Nitoda Port.
It’s about 2.1km, and if you continue walking, it’s just over 30 minutes.
On the way, stop by Cat Shrine and Tashirojima Road Station.
At Michi-no-eki, you can see the cats being fed, which gather there in large numbers at lunchtime.
You can also have a simple meal or buy souvenirs.
▼Cat Island Gallery
4.About the ferry schedule
Ferries may be canceled or ports may change due to weather and sea conditions (especially wind). Information is updated on the morning of the day.
Please check the official website, X (formerly Twitter), or phone call (+81-225-93-6125 Japanese only).
・Approximate operating schedule
Going (Ishinomaki ferry terminal, Chuo or Kadowaki → Tashirojima)
Chuo(Central) port : around 9:00
Kadowaki port: around 9:10
↓↓↓
Odomari Port: around 9:30
Nitoda Port: around 9:45
Returning (Tashirojima → Ishinomaki ferry terminal, Chuo(Central) or Kadowaki)
Nitoda Port: around 13:30
Odomari Port: around 13:45
↓↓↓
Kadowaki port: around 14:20
Chuo(Central) port: around 14:30
*The above time schedule is approximate. Please be sure to check the Ajishima Line Update website for details.