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Heroic Cat Rescues Japanese Train Station

Michael Montes04 mins

The Life of Tama: Kishi Station’s Beloved Cat Stationmaster

Tama, the heart and soul of Kishi Station in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, has captured the hearts of countless travelers. Appointed as the stationmaster in 2007, her charm and appeal radically transformed the rural train station.

Tama’s Impact and Legacy

Tama, the hero of Kishi Station, passed away this week at a local animal hospital. She had just celebrated her 16th birthday in April.
Tama, the hero of Kishi Station, passed away this week at a local animal hospital. She had just celebrated her 16th birthday in April.

Despite her passing, Tama’s influence lives on. She was credited with saving Kishi Station from financial decline, transforming it into a lively tourist destination. Visitors flocked to the station specifically to see this adorable feline, who became a mascot for the local community.

Attraction and Tourism

Tama was appointed stationmaster of Kishi Station, a rural neighborhood 30 minutes from central Wakayama City in southeast Japan, in 2007.
Tama was appointed stationmaster of Kishi Station, a rural neighborhood 30 minutes from central Wakayama City in southeast Japan, in 2007.

Over the years, Tama became a cultural phenomenon. Her cat-shaped station and themed decorations, such as a cat café and a souvenir shop, enhanced the visitor experience. Consequently, the station has become an iconic stop for anyone traveling in the region.

Tama is credited with saving the station from financial ruin. Since her appointment as stationmaster, she became known as a local mascot. Travelers poured in specifically to visit the cute worker.
Tama is credited with saving the station from financial ruin. Since her appointment as stationmaster, she became known as a local mascot.

Continuing the Legacy

In the wake of her passing, Nitama, a cat stationmaster apprentice, has taken over some of Tama’s responsibilities. This transition ensures that the beloved legacy of Tama continues at Kishi Station, maintaining the attraction and joy she brought to so many.

Wakayama Electric Railway operates three adorable themed trains: Strawberry Train, Tama Train (pictured) and Toy Train.
Wakayama Electric Railway operates three adorable themed trains: Strawberry Train, Tama Train (pictured) and Toy Train.
In addition to its cat-shaped exterior, Kishi Station is filled with Tama-themed decorations. There's even a cat cafe and a souvenir shop.
In addition to its cat-shaped exterior, Kishi Station is filled with Tama-themed decorations. There’s even a cat cafe and a souvenir shop.

As travelers continue to visit Kishi Station, they not only remember Tama’s contributions but also support the economy of the region, contributing to a vibrant cultural heritage that balances tradition with modern tourism.

Nitama, a cat stationmaster apprentice, has been shouldering some responsibilities for Tama over the last few years.
Nitama, a cat stationmaster apprentice, has been shouldering some responsibilities for Tama over the last few years.
In Wakayama City station, a special path indicates the way to the platform for the Kishigawa Line, which heads for Kishi Station.
In Wakayama City station, a special path indicates the way to the platform for the Kishigawa Line, which heads for Kishi Station.


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