Ainoshima Island (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Ainoshima Island?
Kids love counting cats and exploring tide pools, yet parents must guard against scratches, carry snacks and trash, and cope with long walks and few shaded toilets.
Positives:
- Kid-friendly wildlife: Children can safely interact with calm cats under supervision.
- Compact layout: All attractions are close together, reducing long walks.
Challenges:
- Basic facilities: Limited restrooms and no changing tables on the island.
- Uneven terrain: Rocky paths and cobblestones require careful footing.
What is so special about Ainoshima Island for with kids?
- Enjoy up-close encounters with dozens of friendly cats
- Explore unique Senjoshiki rock pools at low tide
- Cycle the scenic coastal loop with child seats
- Relax with a sea-view picnic at the breakwater
- Taste local snacks at the island’s café
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to spot cats, explore tide pools, and enjoy a picnic without tiring the kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Ainoshima Island
Cat Safari Walk:
Stroll the harbor and lanes to spot friendly feral cats.
Tip: Play a cat-counting game; do not feed the cats.
Senjoshiki Tide Pool Exploration:
Explore flat rock pools at low tide and find small sea creatures.
Tip: Check tide times online and wear slip-resistant shoes.
Picnic at the Breakwater:
Enjoy sandwiches and juice with sea views and open space to play.
Tip: Bring a picnic mat and a cleanup kit.
Coastal Bicycle Ride:
Rent bikes with child seats to cycle the scenic coastal loop.
Tip: Reserve child seats early; wear helmets.
Snack Break at Island Café:
Try hijiki croquette burgers or kid-friendly curry at Island Station.
Tip: Arrive before peak lunch time for seating.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ferry tickets (round-trip for 4) | JPY 1,860 |
| Bicycle rental (2 bikes, 1h) | JPY 1,600 |
| Food & snacks | JPY 3,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 6,460 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Ainoshima Island?
Visit March to May or September to November for mild weather. In summer, go early to avoid midday heat and see more active cats.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Ainoshima Island
- Plan around tides: Use a tide chart app to time the Senjoshiki pools.
- Pack essentials: Bring water, hats, and snacks as shops are few.
- Book bikes early: Reserve child seats at Island Station on arrival.
Map of Ainoshima Island
Address: Ainoshima Island, Ainoshima, Shingu, Kasuya District, Fukuoka 811-0118, Japan
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Reviews of Ainoshima Island
Zacurry C
A nice weather to taking ferry to Ainoshima only 17 mins, but you gotta checking the time for departure. So many lovely cat on this island, close to human and FOOD ofc 😹
Jeff Ho
Ainoshima Island is highly recommended if you are in the Fukuoka area and want to visit a cat island. For ¥100 (cash only), there's a shuttle bus from Fukko Daimae station that will take you to the ferry terminal. See my photo of the bus you need to take. Otherwise, a ¥3000 cab ride will suffice. The 20 minutes ferry ride was about ¥500 one way to Ainoshima. Note the weird ferry schedule to the is...
Rainbow Leung
A must visit island for cat lovers, many tourists going to this small island but with restraint manner, lower the voices, quietly getting close to the cats and petting them gently.
Kurt Han
If you just wanna pat some cats, 1 hour is total enough. Or you can stay here 3 hours, enough to walk around the whole island and get a dinner, which is what i did.
Isceed Olivarez
Meow 🐱 it’s Cat Island! It was raining hard but I pushed through and thankfully the heavens allowed us to set sail, and enjoy the island that is full of, you know it - cats! It’s predominantly a residential island still, but the cats are everywhere. Yep, one street and look, a cat! Turn your head and walk a bit, and look, another cat! It’s just Catlandia all over 😹
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