Neighborhood
Houtong Cat Village
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Houtong Cat Village, once a bustling coal mining town, reinvented itself as a sanctuary for cats after the mines closed. Visitors are greeted by dozens of resident felines lounging on pathways, rooftops, and in specially designed cat houses. The village features cat-themed murals, souvenir shops, and cafes where you can enjoy a drink while cats nap nearby. The experience is a delightful blend of quirky cat culture and nostalgic mining heritage, with old railway tracks and mining relics still visible. It's a unique destination for animal lovers and those seeking an offbeat cultural experience.
Don't miss
- Spot the village's famous 'cat mayor' and other resident cats along the main street
- Visit the Houtong Cat Village Visitor Center to learn about the community's cat-care initiatives
- Walk the old mining railway path for views of the surrounding mountains and Keelung River
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Houtong Cat Village
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inCraft Village Tour (Quang Phu Cau, Bat Trang, Chuong Conical,...)4.7★ · 19 travelers3–8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →
Best full daySapa Fansipan Cable, Cat Cat Village & Moana Instagram Day Tour5★ · 1,086 travelers4–7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$32 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleJiufen, Shifen and Houtong Cat Village Private Tour4.9★ · 81 travelers~7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$99 per personSee dates →More attractions in Shifen