One of the must-visit places in Japan, Tashirojima, also known as Cat Island, also known as Manga Island, attracts cat-loving tourists with its cat population.
Historically, the story of the island, which was once the center of silkworm production, begins with a few cats brought to the island to protect the silkworm cocoons from mice. Protected by the inhabitants of the island and fed by fishermen, the cats have increased their population over the years. Now, the cats living with the islanders, most of whom are elderly, have turned the island into a tourism center. The island, where dogs are not allowed, is mostly visited by cat-loving tourists.
When you visit the island a little, you will feel the dominance of cats. There is also a cat temple on the island. This temple was built to honor a cat who died because of a falling rock. The islanders have also long believed that cats bring them luck.
You are responsible for your own garbage on the island where there are limited tourist facilities offering food, drinks or public toilets. You have to carry your garbage with you and take it away from the island.