Cat lovers must visit! Explore Okinawa's Oujima Island and meet the adorable cats.

As proud owners of two feline sons, we were thrilled to visit Oujima Island, often referred to as the 'Cat Island' of Okinawa, to spend time with the local cats.

After crossing the bridge to Oujima Island, turn left and walk about three minutes to a pavilion near the fish market 'Oujima Imaiyu Market.' This spot is a popular gathering place for cats. Some of them are very friendly, while others can be a bit fierce. Even as someone who has been raising cats for seven years, I was cautious about approaching them. For those who have never owned a cat, it's best to approach them carefully to avoid getting scratched.

Another area where cats often gather is near the 'Oujima Kannon Temple,' dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, and the 'Oujima Community Center' located across from the temple.

Legend has it that during the Tang Dynasty in China, a shipwreck occurred near the area. To express gratitude to the locals who rescued the ship, a golden statue of the Goddess of Mercy was gifted to the residents of Oujima, leading to the establishment of the Kannon Temple.

The original temple and statue were destroyed during World War II. The current Kannon Temple was rebuilt after the war and now houses a ceramic statue of the Goddess of Mercy.

The open space between the Kannon Temple and the Community Center is quite spacious. Since it's not part of the island's main roads, many cats can be seen leisurely strolling around. I managed to spot seven or eight cats here, with some even rolling around playfully right in front of me. They were absolutely mischievous and adorable.

Post by 泰國劉德華 | Oct 30, 2025