A travelogue of Ainoshima, a cat island easily accessible from Hakata Station.

I visited Ainoshima, a unique travel destination just a short drive from Fukuoka. Commonly referred to as "Cat Island," this small island is famous for being filled with adorable cats, but it offers much more than just a tourist attraction. ⸻ 🚗 How to Get to Ainoshima from Hakata Station Ainoshima is a fishing village near Fukuoka, and is easily accessible in a half-day trip from Hakata Station. 1. Hakata Station → Fukkodaimae Station • 15-minute ride on the JR Kagoshima Line 2. Fukkodaimae Station → Shingu Port • Take the 100-yen bus from the station's north exit 3. Shingu Port → Ainoshima • Ferry times vary by season, but typically take about 20 minutes • Approximately 20 minutes by ferry, 480 yen one-way Tip: Check the ferry schedule in advance and depart from Hakata Station on time. ⸻ 🌊 The Charm of a Rural Fishing Village Arriving on the island, you'll be greeted by the laid-back, friendly atmosphere typical of a rural Japanese fishing village. Narrow alleyways, old wooden houses, and a small harbor with a sea breeze blowing through them create a sense of time passing slowly. Walking around the island, you can also catch glimpses of the daily lives of the locals. The sights of fishing boats docking at the harbor, fishermen preparing fish, and even the sight of small shops organizing their wares are all heartwarming. ⸻ 🐱 Encountering Free-Roaming Cats Ainoshima's greatest charm lies in the cats roaming freely. They're not afraid of people, and you'll find them napping in the alleys or along the shore, or even approaching with a slight wag of their tails. It's also a perfect photo spot. Bring your camera along, and you'll be sure to capture plenty of fun moments as the cats strike natural poses. ⸻ 🏞️ Beach Walk and Healing Walking along the island's coastal path, the azure sea and the rural village landscape blend together to create a picturesque scene. As I walked, feeling the sea breeze, I felt like I was in a healing space, completely free from the noise and busy schedule of the city, where I could enjoy a relaxing time. The entire island is charmingly decorated, and each alley offers a delightful discovery, doubling the enjoyment of my walk. ⸻ ✨ Overall Review Ainoshima is not just a tourist destination; it's a special place where you can experience a trip to a Japanese rural fishing village with cats. If you want to spend a leisurely day near Fukuoka and experience the simple joys and healing you can't find in the city, this is a place I highly recommend. ##JapanTravel #FukuokaTravel #FukuokaSuburbsTravel #Cats #CatIsland #Ainoshima