Houdong Cat Village

Houdong Cat Village

Houdong Cat Village, also known as "Houtong Cat Street," is located in Houdong, Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan. It is a tourist attraction newly planned by Ruifang Town at the end of 2009. Houdong was once the largest coal mining city in Taiwan, but is now a well-known cat-watching destination and a favorite place for felines.

The area around Houdong Cat Village has been home to many cats since early times, and due to the cats’ strong reproductive ability, hundreds of them now inhabit the place. Thanks to a campaign launched by cat lovers on October 31, 2009, titled “With Cats Around, Houdong Is the Most Beautiful,” the living environment for the cats has been completely revitalized. The cats living here, having been in close contact with tourists for a long time, are mostly not shy and some will even actively seek affection. As the daytime is quite hot, the cats tend to hide in the shade, making it easier to see large gatherings of them in the evening.

When visiting Houdong Cat Village, be sure not to buy cat food, canned cat food, or cat toys from shops or vendors, as their quality is poor. When you encounter the cats, you can take photos with your camera, and at most gently stroke their heads with your fingers. Never force the cats to cooperate with you or try to pick them up, as this may cause them harm.

Houtong Cat Village

Must-visit reason: An ideal place to enjoy cats