Cat Alley Neko no Hosomichi
A charming, art-filled alleyway in Onomichi adorned with countless cat sculptures and paintings, offering a delightful experience for cat lovers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos & cat spotting
Cat Alley Neko no Hosomichi
Best Time
Best light for photos & cat spotting

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.
"Surprise and delight around every corner of this hidden gem, with cats painted and carved into every possible surface."
👟 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Wear Your Walking Shoes!
Timing is Key for Feline Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cat-themed itinerary in Japan
👟 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.
Cats in Japan
📍 Easy to Miss Entrance
Look for signs near the Owl Cafe; the entrance can be subtle.
🚫 Don't Feed the Cats
Signs advise against feeding stray cats. Observe them respectfully.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 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.
📍 Easy to Miss Entrance
Look for signs near the Owl Cafe; the entrance can be subtle.
🚫 Don't Feed the Cats
Signs advise against feeding stray cats. Observe them respectfully.
⏳ Quick Visit
The main path takes about 15 minutes to walk through.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
The alley involves a significant climb up steps. Be prepared for a workout, but there are resting spots along the way.
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.
Due to the steep steps and uneven terrain, Cat Alley may be challenging for those with significant mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cat Alley Neko no Hosomichi is a public pathway and does not require an entrance fee. It's free to explore.
As an outdoor public space, Cat Alley is generally accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
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.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to poor lighting and potential safety concerns on the uneven path.
There isn't a dedicated visitor center for Cat Alley itself. Information is usually gathered from local signage or by exploring the area.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, you can take photos of the cats, but please be respectful. Avoid disturbing them, and remember not to feed them.
Daylight hours provide the best illumination. Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' can offer beautiful, soft light for your shots.
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.
As it's a narrow, public pathway, using a tripod might be difficult and could obstruct other visitors. Handheld photography is generally more practical.
🎫 🐾 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.
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.
Sightings are not guaranteed. While many cats inhabit the area, they are strays and may not always be visible or approachable.
Restroom facilities are not typically mentioned as being directly within Cat Alley. You may need to find facilities in the surrounding Onomichi area.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Cat Alley: More Than Just Statues
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.
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.
Navigating the Climb: Tips for a Comfortable Visit
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit