Ehime's Cat Island: Aoshima Visitor Basics

A small island in the Seto Inland Sea with few residents and many cats rewards visitors who plan ahead and bring their own supplies.

Published October 18, 2026 at 10:12 PM JST | By Tokyo Paul

Quick answer: Aoshima is a small island off Ozu in Ehime Prefecture, known as a cat island because cats far outnumber its few residents. A small ferry sails from Nagahama Port, and the crossing takes roughly 35 minutes. The island has almost no shops or services, so bring food, water and a bag for trash, and check the ferry schedule before you go.

What Aoshima is

Aoshima is a tiny island in the Iyo-nada sea off the coast of Ehime Prefecture on the island of Shikoku. It is roughly a few kilometers around, with a small fishing village and a handful of elderly residents. In recent years, its population of cats has grown to the point that visitors commonly say cats outnumber people many times over. It lies in a quiet corner of the Iyo-nada sea, where small boats and fishing nets are part of daily life.

The cats are friendly, curious and used to visitors. They gather near the harbor, on the paths and around the few houses, often lounging in sunny spots. Their presence has made the island a destination for animal lovers from around the world. Visiting means entering a living community rather than a theme park, so manners matter and plans should be made carefully. Because the island is small, even a short stay lets you see how the cats and the residents share the same lanes and rooftops.

Getting there by ferry

The island is reached by a small ferry that departs from Nagahama Port in Ozu City. The crossing takes roughly thirty-five minutes, and the boat is small and functional. Service is limited, often just a couple of round trips a day, and service can be reduced or paused on some days, so check the schedule before you plan. Tickets are usually bought at the terminal on the day, so bring cash. Staff at the port usually answer questions on boarding procedure.

Weather can cancel sailings, so a flexible plan is important. Ask the ferry operator or the Ozu city tourism office about current timetables, fares and any rules. Arrive at the port early, since boats may leave soon after boarding. Keep in mind that the return boat times determine how long you can stay, and missing the last boat is not an option on an island with no commercial lodging.

Getting to the port

Nagahama is on the west coast of Ehime. The port is reached via Iyo-Nagahama Station on the JR Yosan Line, which runs from Matsuyama along the coast, and the ride takes roughly an hour from Matsuyama depending on the service. From the station, the ferry terminal is a short walk or taxi ride, and the route is easy to follow. Look for the ferry signs near the harbor, and ask at the ticket counter if you are unsure where to wait.

Driving is also possible, with parking near the port, though spaces are limited on busy days. Combining the trip with Matsuyama, known for its hot spring and castle, makes a good itinerary. Allow a full day for the island and transport, because timetables are tight. Check the trains too, since local services on Shikoku run less often than city lines.

What the island offers and what it lacks

Aoshima has no shops, no vending machines and almost no services for visitors. There may be a simple toilet near the harbor, but facilities are minimal, so plan accordingly. Bring water, food, snacks, sun protection and rain gear, and carry out everything you bring, including all trash. If you need medicine or specific supplies, pack them in advance, as help is not close at hand.

There is little to do beyond walking, watching cats and enjoying the sea air. That quiet is the appeal. Paths are short and simple, and a loop of the island does not take long. The scenery includes views over the sea, old fishing buildings and some shrines. Take your time and bring a camera, but keep your expectations simple and avoid expecting cafés or entertainment. Many visitors say the pleasure comes from sitting quietly on a bench near the harbor and letting the cats choose whether to approach.

Cat etiquette and responsibilities

Respect for the cats and residents is essential. Do not chase, pick up or grab the animals, and let them approach you. Avoid loud noises and flash photography. Many cats are used to people, but some are shy, and each has its own temperament. Never leave food, trash or other items behind. Keep children close and teach them to move calmly, since sudden movement can startle the animals.

Feeding rules can change, so follow the guidance on signs and from local organizations, and check the latest recommendations before you travel. Many cats on the island are cared for by local residents and volunteers, and their health depends on shared effort. Some visitors make donations to support the cats, if a donation option is available. Residents live on the island year-round, so keep to paths and do not enter private property.

Seasons and timing

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons, with mild temperatures and calm seas. Summer is hot with strong sun, little shade and a risk of typhoons, so take water and a hat. Winter is cold with wind off the sea, and ferry service can be disrupted by rough weather. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses help on bright days when the sea reflects strong light.

Cats often seek shade at midday in summer and sunny spots in winter, which can help you find them. Mornings are often active, when cats gather near the harbor. Because ferry times are fixed, time on the island is usually limited to two or three hours. Dress in layers, wear shoes with good grip for rocky paths, and bring a small bag for your belongings.

Pairing with Ozu and Ehime

Ozu is a castle town on the Hiji River, with a rebuilt wooden castle keep, old merchant streets and a historic riverside villa. In summer, traditional cormorant fishing on the river is a local attraction, held on evenings in the warmer months. A trip to Aoshima can be combined with a stroll in Ozu's old quarter. Both can be reached from Iyo-Nagahama or Iyo-Ozu stations with a short bus or taxi ride.

Ehime is known for mandarin oranges, and citrus sweets, juices and sodas appear in many shops. Seafood such as sea bream is a local specialty, and sea bream rice is a regional dish. Nearby Uchiko has a preserved merchant street and an old theater. For a longer stay, Matsuyama has Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot spring baths. Check each site's hours before planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Aoshima from Matsuyama?

Take the JR Yosan Line to Iyo-Nagahama Station, then walk or take a taxi to Nagahama Port, where the ferry departs. Check the ferry timetable first, since service is limited. Allow a full day and plan around the last return boat.

Can I buy food or drinks on Aoshima?

Almost no. The island has no shops or vending machines, so bring your own food, water and a bag to carry out all trash. Restrooms are minimal, so plan ahead and use the facilities at the port before boarding.

Can I feed the cats?

Follow the current guidance from local organizations and signs on the island. Rules can change, and the cats are cared for by residents and volunteers. Never leave food scraps or litter. Look at the official tourism information before you travel.

Keep Exploring

More guides from Tokyo Paul: Ehime Prefecture Travel Guide, Iriomote: Okinawa's Jungle Island and Ferries in Japan: Island Hopping Basics.