Taiwan's Cat Village – A Haven for Cat Enthusiasts

It’s unclear exactly when Taiwan's Cat Village became the internet sensation it is today, thanks to the irresistible cuteness of its chubby cats. If you’re a true 'cat servant' or a devoted feline fan, be sure to add this unique destination to your upcoming Taiwan travel plans!

Where is Taiwan's Cat Village?

A mere 40-minute ride on the high-speed train will leave you in awe, wondering how such a charming place exists. Taiwan's Cat Village, also known as Houtong Cat Village, is nestled on a hill in the northern part of Taiwan's island, within the Ruifang district of China. What’s truly special is that the village is only about 35 kilometers from Taipei, a short 40-minute train journey away.

The Cat Village in Taiwan is a small village located on a hill in the northern part of the island (Image Source: Collected).

• Address: New Taipei City, Taiwan.

History of the Taiwan Cat Village

In the past, Houtong Village was renowned for its coal mining and production, making it one of the top coal producers in Taiwan. At its peak, Houtong attracted over 6,000 workers to the area. During its prosperous years, the region produced more than 220,000 tons of coal annually. However, as the coal mining industry gradually declined, the coal mining facilities in Houtong were closed, and nearly all the villagers left the area.

The peaceful and serene atmosphere in the small town of Houtong (Image Source: Collected)

After some time, it is unclear exactly when, but the village saw an increasing number of stray cats settling and living there. In 2008, a group of cat-loving volunteers shared adorable photos of the cats online in hopes of garnering community support. As a result, the village slowly became a famous spot, drawing thousands of 'cat parents' eager to meet the 'royal felines.'

If you visit The Cat Village in Taiwan on a warm, sunny day, don't be surprised to find dozens of cats basking in the sunlight or taking a midday nap! The number of cats in Houtong Village is so great that it's nearly impossible to count them all.

Decoding the name “Houtong” in the Cat Village

Many visitors often wonder why the Cat Village is named “Houtong” instead of “Miaodong.” This originates from the existence of a monkey cave in the early days of the village's formation. Although no one knows what happened to the monkeys now, this familiar name has remained in the minds of the locals. Therefore, everyone refers to it as the “Houtong Cat Village.”

When is the best time to visit the Taiwan Cat Village?

It is recommended to visit the Taiwan Cat Village on weekdays rather than the weekend. Weekends tend to be overcrowded, creating an overwhelming atmosphere. Additionally, there are not many guesthouses or hotels around the Houtong Cat Village. Therefore, it is advisable to return the same day.

Note: Visitors should check the train schedule to ensure they return on time, to avoid the risk of being left behind without available accommodation.

How to get to Houtong Cat Village

To reach Houtong Cat Village, visitors can take either a train or a bus. Below are some simple and quick travel instructions to get to the Cat Village:

Train

From Taipei Main Station, board the Yilan line and alight at Houtong station. Afterward, it’s just a 2-minute walk to the village. The train journey typically takes about 40 minutes to an hour. The last train back to Taipei departs at 9:00 PM. However, all public services in the village cease by 6:00 PM. Therefore, most visitors choose to leave early and avoid staying overnight in the village.

The train ride from Taipei to Houtong Village takes around 40 minutes (Image Source: Collected)

Bus

At Ruifang train station, visitors can cross the street and take either bus number 808 or F808, which travels from Taipei to Houtong.

Things to do at Taiwan's Cat Village

Houtong Village is home to over 100 different cat breeds, with their numbers continuously growing. When you visit, you'll easily spot adorable cat symbols all around the village, such as mangosteen-shaped designs, cat posters on the walls, and more. Some of the local 'kittens' even put on a 'catwalk' show, lounging in the sun without a care in the world.

Strolling on the Hilltop

A simple walk along the paths leading to the village will allow you to encounter the village's charming cats. Moreover, these winding paths will guide you up to the highest point of the village. From this elevation, you’ll be able to admire panoramic views of the village, tucked beside a river and a stream.

No matter where you go, the cats are always present in every corner (Image Source: Collected)

The walking trails in The Taiwan Cat Village are filled with fascinating and captivating sights that everyone will want to explore. Along these paths, you may encounter tunnels and beautifully curved bridges alongside the railway tracks.

Visit the Cat Village’s Central Museum

The Taiwan Cat Village was once the largest coal mining area in the 1970s. However, as time passed, the coal mines gradually depleted, and the industry became exhausted. This led the Taiwanese government to reduce trains and labor. As a result, the area turned into an almost deserted town with very few residents.

Fortunately, the coal mining facilities were well-preserved. Over time, the site transformed into a museum showcasing artifacts and paintings depicting the daily lives of the miners. Visitors to the museum will easily find items once used by miners, such as soap, rubber boots, handkerchiefs, and more.

Purchase Souvenirs at Meow Shop

The locals quickly noticed that the number of tourists visiting the Cat Village was growing rapidly. Seizing this opportunity, they capitalized on the tourism potential the village provided. This is evident in the continuous release of cat-themed items. You can find souvenirs like cat-shaped trinkets, postcards, stationery, and even pineapple cakes shaped like cats. Feel free to stop by, browse, and pick out a perfect gift for your loved ones.

Enjoy a Coffee or Meal at the Cat Village

As the demand from tourists increased, more and more restaurants started popping up in the Cat Village. The eateries primarily offer traditional Taiwanese dishes like beef noodles and oden hotpot, both featuring delicious and unique flavors.

A Touch of Afternoon Tea and Sweets in Houtong Village (Source: Collected)

Additionally, you can indulge in delightful pastries and sip a cup of coffee on a rainy day. There’s nothing more perfect than soaking in the quiet and peaceful ambiance while relaxing in such a serene setting. This is precisely the unique experience you can only find in The Cat Village in Taiwan, one you won’t encounter anywhere else in the world.

Cuddle and Play with the Adorable 'Royal Cats'

A visit to the Cat Village wouldn’t be complete without cuddling and playing with the cats. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the population of cats here exceeds the number of locals. No matter where you go, you’ll easily spot them all around the village. However, on cold, rainy days, they tend to hide out of sight, so the number of cats visible may be fewer than usual. On sunny days, they can often be seen lounging in front of homes, basking in the warmth or taking naps.

The Cats Have Become Unofficial 'Celebrities' for Tourists to Snap Photos With (Source: Collected)

One of the most admirable aspects of the Cat Village is that the locals never let the cats go hungry. They have their own wooden houses, built by the residents, to shield them from the rain and sun. As winter approaches, their homes are always stocked with warm blankets, soft cushions, and food. As a result, the cats here tend to be rather ‘plump’, their round bodies a testament to the care they receive from the community.

Moreover, the cats in Houtong Village are very sociable and friendly, so you can play and pet them without fear of them running away. However, it’s important to never feed the cats unfamiliar food, as it could harm them.

Important Tips When Visiting the Cat Village in Taiwan

Every destination has its own set of rules, and the Cat Village in Taiwan is no exception. Here are some important guidelines to keep in mind when visiting the Cat Village in Taiwan:

• Never feed the cats food that you’ve prepared, as unfamiliar food can cause illness. Instead, you can purchase food for the cats from the Houtong shops.

• Avoid overfeeding the cats, as it can lead to them becoming bloated. Just give them a few pieces at a time, as the next person may want to feed them too.

• Maintain cleanliness around the village. Also, it’s a good idea to use the designated cat bowls for feeding, which are available throughout the town. After eating, please refrain from littering until you find a public trash bin.

• Do not use your camera/phone’s flash when taking pictures with the cats, as they are afraid of the flash.

• After playing with the cats, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly to avoid any allergic reactions to cat fur.

• Do not tease grumpy or irritated cats, as they may scratch you with their sharp claws. Instead, wait for a cat in a more playful mood to interact with.

Nearby Attractions to Visit Around the Cat Village in Taiwan

The Cat Village in Taiwan is conveniently located near many other famous destinations. Therefore, you can easily combine a visit to the Cat Village with these nearby landmarks:

• Binh Khoi: Located about 29.6 km from Houtong, this place is famous for its annual Lantern Festival and the International Sky Lantern Festival.

• Shifen: Situated about 26.4 km from Houtong, this is one of the most famous ancient streets for tourists to visit, enjoy street food, and release sky lanterns with wishes. Additionally, Shifen is home to Taiwan’s largest waterfall, which stands at 40 meters.

• Jiufen: Just 7.2 km away from Houtong, this nostalgic old town is filled with narrow alleys, charming tea houses, and is a renowned filming location, serving as inspiration for the popular anime “Spirited Away.”

• Keelung: Located approximately 17.7 km from Houtong, Keelung is the largest port city in northern Taiwan. Visitors to Keelung can enjoy views of ancient forts, colorful houses, and a bustling night market.

The Cat Village in Taiwan is not only a paradise for cat lovers but also a peaceful retreat for those looking to unwind and relax. We hope that with these tips from Mytour, you can add this charming destination to your travel itinerary. For those interested in booking a complete tour package to Taiwan, please feel free to contact the Mytour Hotline at 028 3827 0404 for free consultation!