The First Cat Station Master in Japan

cat wearing a hat

In 2007, a stray calico cat named Tama was made station master of Kishi station in Wakayama after financial problems forced all staff on the line to be eliminated. Their goal was for her to boost ridership on the line and promote tourism. Today, the station has been renovated to look like a cat, there is a cafe and gift shop themed around Tama, and three trains decorated with images of cats. So we can safely say mission accomplished.

The Real Ghost of Tsushima- The Tsushima Leopard Cat

The island of Tsushima became world-famous thanks to the game, Ghost of Tsushima. Like the title, there is in fact a ghost on the island, the Tsushima Leopard cat. They are rarely seen as they are active at night and keeps their distance from humans. They might soon be ghosts in a more literal sense soon as car collisions and loss of habitat have made Tsushima leopard cats critically endangered.

Kochi Prefecture, the Chicken Kingdom

Kochi prefecture is located on the island of Shikoku and is known for many things such as its friendly locals, Sake, and Kastuo Tatataki(lightly broiled Skipjack Tuna). From the title, you shouldn`t be surprised to hear me say it is also famous for its breeds of chickens. There are 38 heritage breeds chickens in Japan and 8 of them come from Kochi Prefecture. Kochi not only has a large number of varieties but they are unique in their abilities, appearance, and even taste.

The Only Horseshoe Crab Museum in the World!

In Kasaoka city in Okayama prefecture, you can visit the only Horseshoe Crab Museum in the world! Go way off the typical tourist map and see a strange and one of a kind museum devoted to an animal that could only get a prize in a beauty contest if it was playing a game of Monopoly.