Nestled just off the southern coast of Japan, Aoshima Island is a quirky travel destination where cats reign supreme, outnumbering humans by an astonishing six to one.
Back in the 1940s, the charming fishing village of Aoshima had a little rodent problem. Enter the cats—brought in to tackle the mice menace. Fast forward to today, and this tiny mile-long island is home to more than 120 feline residents, roaming freely, while just around 20 human inhabitants, mostly aged between 50 and 80, carry on with their lives.
Once bustling with a population of 900, the island now wears a quieter face, dotted with remnants of its past human majority, like abandoned buildings silently standing watch. Meanwhile, the cats have taken over the show, making Aoshima a living testament to nature’s takeover when humans leave.
Tourists flock to Aoshima, lured by the lure of feline charm. However, there’s a catch—there are no hotels or restaurants here, so visitors better come prepared with their own snacks. The cats, well-trained beggars by now, are known to liberate unsuspecting travelers of their lunches if given the chance. On busy days, tourists can even outnumber the human residents, leading some locals to hope for a respectful balance between guests and their quaint island life.
Despite their demanding nature, the cats of Aoshima fare quite well. The elderly locals care for them, like the village nurse, Atsuko Ogata, who feeds them regularly. Even though they have an array of hunting skills to rely on, from catching birds to pilfering fish, it’s the visiting veterinarians from the mainland who ensure these furry residents are in tip-top shape.
There’s the question of population control, too. A small TNR (trap-neuter-return) initiative is in place, keeping a check on the numbers without resorting to drastic measures. It’s a slow process, but one that aims to maintain a healthy balance and ensure the cats’ continued flourishing.
Resident sentiments swing between amusement and gentle exasperation. Local fisherman Hidenori Kamimoto hopes that tourists find solace in these feline encounters but reminds visitors to respect the residents’ peaceful way of life. With tourists often tripling the island’s human count, the need for mindful visiting is quite apt.
So, if you’re packing your bags for a visit to Aoshima, remember to respect the local residents, both human and feline. This isn’t just a place for Instagram-worthy photos, but a community living in harmony. Bring a sense of wonder, a dash of sensitivity, and maybe some extra kibble, and you’ll find yourself welcomed by the island’s unique charm for years to come.
