Cat Alley Neko no Hosomichi - cute cat in Jiufen 九份
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Cat Alley Neko no Hosomichi

3.9
·2k reviews·Onomichi, Japan

A charming, art-filled alleyway in Onomichi adorned with countless cat sculptures and paintings, offering a delightful experience for cat lovers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos & cat spotting

CrowdMedium
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Cat Alley Neko no Hosomichi - cute cat in Jiufen 九份

Cat Alley Neko no Hosomichi

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for photos & cat spotting

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming, art-filled alleyway in Onomichi adorned with countless cat sculptures and paintings, offering a delightful experience for cat lovers.

3.9
(2k reviews)

"Surprise and delight around every corner of this hidden gem, with cats painted and carved into every possible surface."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended

The path is steep and uneven. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes to navigate safely.

🦟 Bug Spray for Warm Days

If visiting during warmer months, be prepared for bugs, especially if you linger.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cat Statues Galore

Cat Statues Galore

Along the entire alley

Discover countless cat sculptures, paintings, and carvings adorning every surface, from rocks to fences. A true paradise for cat enthusiasts!

The Small Shrine

The Small Shrine

Mid-alley

A charming, serene shrine dedicated to cats, offering a peaceful moment amidst the artistic feline displays.

Potential Stray Cat Sightings

Potential Stray Cat Sightings

Throughout the alley

If you're lucky, you might encounter some of the alley's resident cats lounging or begging for attention. Remember to observe from a distance and avoid feeding them.

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Planning Your Visit

Wear Your Walking Shoes!

Cat Alley involves a climb up many steps and uneven surfaces. Sturdy footwear is essential for navigating this unique path comfortably and safely. Don't let the climb deter you; the views and feline art are worth it! Reddit

Timing is Key for Feline Encounters

While the alley is adorned with cat art, actual cat sightings can be hit or miss. Visiting during warmer parts of the day might increase your chances of spotting resident cats, but remember feeding them is discouraged. Reddit

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best light for photos & cat spotting
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Cat-themed itinerary in Japan

👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended

The path is steep and uneven. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes to navigate safely. Reddit

🦟 Bug Spray for Warm Days

If visiting during warmer months, be prepared for bugs, especially if you linger. Reddit

reddit.com

Cats in Japan

📍 Easy to Miss Entrance

Look for signs near the Owl Cafe; the entrance can be subtle. Reddit

🚫 Don't Feed the Cats

Signs advise against feeding stray cats. Observe them respectfully. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended

The path is steep and uneven. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes to navigate safely. Reddit

🦟 Bug Spray for Warm Days

If visiting during warmer months, be prepared for bugs, especially if you linger. Reddit

📍 Easy to Miss Entrance

Look for signs near the Owl Cafe; the entrance can be subtle. Reddit

🚫 Don't Feed the Cats

Signs advise against feeding stray cats. Observe them respectfully. Reddit

⏳ Quick Visit

The main path takes about 15 minutes to walk through. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.9
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Cat Alley's unique charm and the abundance of cat-themed art, calling it a delightful hidden gem. The potential to see real cats adds to the magic. However, some note that actual cat sightings aren't guaranteed and the climb can be steep, making sturdy footwear a must.

"As a cat lover, I found surprise and delight around every corner of this hidden gem. There are cats painted and carved into every possible surface - rocks, fences, signs, walls. The small shrine is lovely and we even met a few cats while we were there. The surface can be uneven and a little steep in places so highly recommend wearing sturdy shoes."

Kristy J

"Interesting path with cats decorations along the way. However, you may not come across any cats there. I just saw one lying on the upper part of the slope. It takes around 15 mins in finishing the route."

Michael Hui

"The segment considered 'Cat Alley' is fairly easy to walk through, but getting there is quite a climb up many steps. Don't miss exploring this part of Onomichi - it is very beautiful and unique. I didn't have enough time before dark and got many bug bites. Saw 3 cats - 2 that ran away and 1 that was begging for attention. Keep in mind that feeding stray cats is warned against on at least one sign that I saw (in Japanese)."

Janna Dawn

What People Like

Abundant cat art
Unique atmosphere
Chance to see real cats

What People Dislike

Steep climb
Uneven path
No guaranteed cat sightings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cat Alley is located in Onomichi. The path itself is a climb up many steps. It's often described as being near the Owl Cafe, so look for that landmark. Reddit

Onomichi is accessible by train. From the station, you'll likely need to walk or take a local bus to reach the vicinity of Cat Alley, followed by a climb. Reddit

The alley involves a significant climb up steps. Be prepared for a workout, but there are resting spots along the way. Reddit

Information on specific parking near the alley is limited, but Onomichi has public parking areas. It's advisable to check local parking options in Onomichi city. Reddit

Due to the steep steps and uneven terrain, Cat Alley may be challenging for those with significant mobility issues. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Cat Alley Neko no Hosomichi is a public pathway and does not require an entrance fee. It's free to explore. Reddit

As an outdoor public space, Cat Alley is generally accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility. Reddit

Visiting during the day offers the best light for appreciating the cat art and potentially spotting resident cats. Late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting with fewer crowds. Reddit

While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to poor lighting and potential safety concerns on the uneven path. Reddit

There isn't a dedicated visitor center for Cat Alley itself. Information is usually gathered from local signage or by exploring the area. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Every corner offers a photo op! Capture the diverse cat statues, the unique art on walls and fences, and any resident cats you encounter. The shrine is also a picturesque spot. Reddit

Yes, you can take photos of the cats, but please be respectful. Avoid disturbing them, and remember not to feed them. Reddit

Daylight hours provide the best illumination. Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' can offer beautiful, soft light for your shots. Reddit

There are no specific restrictions mentioned for general photography in Cat Alley. However, always be mindful of private property if you venture off the main path. Reddit

As it's a narrow, public pathway, using a tripod might be difficult and could obstruct other visitors. Handheld photography is generally more practical. Reddit

🎫 🐾 Onsite Experience

You'll find a charming path lined with numerous cat statues, paintings, and artistic decorations. There's also a small shrine and, if you're lucky, you might see real cats. Reddit

Most visitors find that walking the entire route takes about 15 minutes. You might spend longer if you stop frequently to admire the art or wait for cat sightings. Reddit

Sightings are not guaranteed. While many cats inhabit the area, they are strays and may not always be visible or approachable. Reddit

Restroom facilities are not typically mentioned as being directly within Cat Alley. You may need to find facilities in the surrounding Onomichi area. Reddit

The primary draw is the unique cat art and the chance to see real cats. The climb itself offers scenic views of the surrounding area. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cat Alley offers a whimsical adventure for families. The sheer number of cat decorations is sure to captivate children's imaginations. The climb provides a fun challenge, and the chance to spot real cats adds an element of excitement.

Key recommendations: Ensure children wear sturdy shoes, as the path can be steep and uneven. Keep a close eye on them during the climb. While spotting cats is a highlight, remind children to observe them respectfully and not to chase or feed them. The short duration of the walk makes it manageable for younger attention spans. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers

For solo travelers, Cat Alley is a delightful and easily navigable attraction. It offers a unique cultural experience with its artistic flair and the chance for serendipitous encounters with local cats. The relatively short duration means it can easily fit into a day of exploring Onomichi.

Tips for solo visitors: Wear comfortable shoes for the climb. Be observant of your surroundings, especially on the uneven paths. The alley is a great spot for photography, so bring your camera or smartphone. Consider visiting in the late afternoon for a more peaceful experience with potentially fewer crowds. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Cat Alley: More Than Just Statues

Cat Alley, or Neko no Hosomichi, is a unique pathway in Onomichi renowned for its whimsical feline theme. It's not just a collection of statues; it's an artistic expression woven into the fabric of the town. Visitors will discover cats painted on walls, carved into rocks, and adorning fences, creating a delightful and surprising visual journey. The path itself is a climb, offering a bit of a workout with rewarding views as you ascend. Reddit

Beyond the sheer volume of cat art, the alley holds a special charm due to the possibility of encountering actual stray cats. These feline residents often lounge in sunny spots or playfully interact with visitors, adding an element of spontaneous joy to the experience. However, it's important to remember that these are stray animals, and signs often discourage feeding them to maintain their natural behavior and health. Reddit

For those seeking a truly immersive experience, consider visiting during the day when the light is best for photography and the cats are more likely to be active. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the path can be steep and uneven. The combination of artistic creativity and the presence of real cats makes Cat Alley a memorable and quirky destination for any traveler, especially cat lovers. Reddit

Navigating the Climb: Tips for a Comfortable Visit

The journey through Cat Alley is often described as a climb, involving numerous steps and uneven terrain. This means that comfortable and sturdy footwear is absolutely essential. Forget flip-flops or heels; opt for athletic shoes or hiking boots to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Reddit

While the climb can be invigorating, it's also important to be prepared for the elements. If you're visiting during warmer months, carrying water and perhaps a small fan can be beneficial. Some reviewers also mention the presence of bugs, so a light insect repellent might be a good idea, especially if you plan to linger. Reddit

Despite the physical aspect, the climb is well worth the effort. There are resting spots along the way, allowing you to catch your breath and admire the surroundings. The unique art and the potential for delightful cat encounters make the ascent a rewarding part of the Onomichi experience. Reddit

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