Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kishi Station is the terminal station of the Wakayama Electric Railway's Kishigawa Line, located in Kinokawa City, Wakayama Prefecture (formerly Itakiso Town/formerly Kishigawa Town). It's a small, local station, but it gained national attention and became known as a tourist spot when the cat "Stationmaster Tama" was appointed stationmaster in 2007. Tama passed away in 2015, but her appeal as a symbol of regional revitalization continues, with monuments and commemorative spaces in her honor, as well as cat-themed station building designs and trains (such as the "Tama Train"). Since then, successor cat stationmasters have been appointed, and the concept of a station with cats continues to this day.
Highlights
- Tama-related commemorative spots: Tama photos and merchandise, monuments and statues, a replica of the stationmaster's office, etc. There are exhibits commemorating Tama around the station.
- Cat-themed station building and decorations: There are many photo spots, such as the cat-shaped station building design, renovated interior, cat-themed signs and benches.
- Cat-themed trains (such as the Tama Train): You may be able to ride trains operated by Wakayama Electric Railway that are decorated with wood grain and cat motifs (please check the operating schedule).
- Souvenir corner around the station: There is a small shop selling Tama-related souvenirs and local specialties, and limited edition goods are popular.
- The unique atmosphere of a terminal station: As the terminus of a local line, you can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and take photos in the station square and on the platform.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Location: Kinokawa City, Wakayama Prefecture (please check the official website for the exact address before visiting).
- public transport:
- Take the Wakayama Electric Railway (Kishigawa Line) to the last stop, Kishi Station. You may need to transfer from a station on the Wakayama City side (Wakayama Station or Wakayamashi Station on the Wakayama Electric Railway), which is the starting point of the Kishigawa Line.
- The most common route is to walk or take a bus or taxi from JR Wakayama Station to the Wakayama Electric Railway transfer station and then board the Kishigawa Line. Please check transfer times and schedules in advance.
- car:
- Accessible from the Hanwa Expressway and national highways. Please drive carefully as the roads around the station are narrow in some places.
- Parking may be limited, so we recommend checking availability in advance or using public transport.
- From the plane/airport: Take the train from Kansai International Airport or Osaka/Kobe towards Wakayama, then transfer to the Kishigawa Line. Times and routes vary depending on your departure point, so please check the timetable.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Just to see the station and surrounding area: 30 minutes to 1 hour (including taking photos and purchasing merchandise).
- If you want to walk around the area or take a break at a cafe: about 1-2 hours.
- Day trips combined with sightseeing in Wakayama City (e.g. Wakayama Castle, Kimiidera Temple, etc.): Half a day to one day.
Nearby spots
- Kishi Station itself is a major tourist destination, so the area around the station is small, but you can access major tourist spots in Wakayama City by car or train.
- You can get to Wakayama City (Wakayama Castle, Kimiidera Temple, etc.) by public transport or car, so if you have time, we recommend visiting both.
- The local scenery and old townscapes along the line are also appealing: The Kishigawa Line is rich in local character, and you can enjoy strolling around from the train window or getting off along the way.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: On weekends, holidays, Golden Week, and summer vacation, the number of tourists increases, and stations and trains can get crowded. Be especially careful during the "Tama Train" and commemorative events.
- Consideration for animals: Even if there is a cat stationmaster, do not touch or chase him carelessly. When taking photos, please follow the instructions of those around you and station staff. *The original Tama has already passed away, so the cat you can actually meet is his successor.
- Check the timetable and operation: There are times when there are not many trains on the Kishigawa Line. It is a good idea to check the timetable and operation information before your visit, and also plan your return trip.
- Limited facilities: The stations themselves are small, and restrooms and shops may have limited opening hours. Don't expect special services or facilities designed for long stays.
- Neighborhood etiquette: The area around the station is close to residential areas, so please be considerate and not cause a nuisance to neighbors by making noise or parking on the street.
Before visiting, it's a good idea to check the latest information (train schedules, events, exhibitions, etc.) on the official websites and social media of Wakayama Electric Railway and Kinokawa City. Kishi Station is a spot where you can experience the warmth of a small station and the local community's efforts through cats. Enjoy taking photos and purchasing merchandise, while also cherishing the local atmosphere.
