Located in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, "Enoshima" is home to numerous tourist attractions such as Enoshima Shrine and the Sea Candle. However, for cat lovers, it is also famous as a "Cat Island" where many cats reside. This time, we introduce this magical cat island.
Why Are There So Many Cats on Enoshima?
Why does Enoshima have so many cats? The reason is that since around the 1980s, the number of abandoned cats on the island has increased, and feeding by volunteers and tourists has led to natural reproduction.
Subsequently, through fundraising and other efforts, funds were raised for spaying and neutering costs and for setting up signs prohibiting cat abandonment. The islanders have worked hard to control the overpopulation of cats, allowing these cats to be cherished as "community cats."
It is said that at the peak of the cat population, the number of cats was more than double that of the island's residents.
Cats can potentially be found anywhere. However, with their unpredictable and capricious nature, there is no guaranteed spot where you will definitely encounter them. Below, we introduce locations where you are likely to meet cats.
Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden
The "Enoshima Samuel Cocking Garden" is a botanical garden named after the British merchant Samuel Cocking from the Meiji era. It is filled with various flowers and plants, exuding a tropical ambiance. Here, you may encounter adorable cats.
Shotenjima Park
After crossing the Enoshima Benten Bridge and turning left, you will reach "Shotenjima Park." Originally, it seems to have been an island called Shotenjima floating in the sea off Enoshima, but it was reclaimed for the yacht races during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, turning it into a park.
Old Town Area
After crossing the Enoshima Benten Bridge and turning left into the alleys, you will reach the "Old Town Area," full of fishing village charm. With fishing tackle shops and guesthouses lining the streets, this area has fewer people and a calm, peaceful atmosphere compared to the main street, Benzaiten Nakamise-dori.
Enoshima's cats are diverse—some approach you affectionately, some allow you to pet them, some follow you, while others are wary and may run away. Overall, the impression is that most cats here are friendly.
Tips for Interacting with Cats
Do Not Feed the Cats
Enoshima's cats include both domestic and community cats. Even community cats are well-fed under the care of islanders. Therefore, no matter how cute they are, please refrain from feeding them. Overfeeding can be harmful to their health.
Avoid Using Flash Photography
When taking photos, consider that some cats may be startled, so avoid using flash and try to shoot from a distance.
Do Not Take Cats Home
No matter how cute the cats are, taking community or owned cats home without permission causes worry for volunteers, so please absolutely refrain from doing so.
Enoshima is home to many cats, but in recent years, their numbers are said to have decreased. To cherish the coexistence of islanders and cats, please follow proper etiquette and enjoy exploring Enoshima's cats!
