The Second-Generation Cat Stationmaster of Wakayama, "Nibi," Takes Office

By/MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department
 

Japan's beloved cat stationmaster "Tama" from Wakayama Electric Railway passed away in June, stepping down from her role, which left many fans heartbroken. Now, the duties of the cat stationmaster have officially been taken over by Tama’s former subordinate, "Nibi." The appointment ceremony was held on the 11th in front of Tama’s bronze statue.

In 2007, the calm and composed Tama officially took on the role of cat stationmaster, guarding an unmanned train station. Soon, this amusing piece of news spread by word of mouth, and after being featured on TV programs, it attracted a large number of domestic and international tourists. Tama became a true money-bringing cat, boosting local tourism. In 2009, Wakayama Electric Railway even launched a train themed around Tama, sparking fresh interest in railway travel.

After Tama passed away in May this year, the five-year-old female cat Nibi has now officially taken over as the stationmaster of Kishi Station. On the 11th, she was carried into the ceremony by the president of Wakayama Electric Railway, with nearly 500 people attending the inauguration. To commemorate Tama’s contributions to Kishi Station during her lifetime, the railway company specially built a shrine for Tama at Kishi Station. The opening ceremony of the shrine and Nibi’s appointment ceremony were held on the same day. Nibi received her appointment in front of Tama’s statue and will report her work to Tama, who has now become a deity.