What is Houtong Cat Village?
Short answer: A small village in New Taipei City, Taiwan, that became a tourist destination for its many cats. It was once a coal-mining town, and its cats became a draw after volunteers started caring for them.
Quick facts
- Houtong. The village is in Ruifang District, New Taipei City. It was a coal-mining town, and it declined after the mining industry ended.
- The cats. Volunteers began to feed and look after the village's cats, and the cats became famous, drawing visitors from Taiwan and abroad.
- Care. Volunteers and local groups have worked on neutering and care to keep the cat population healthy.
- The first cat cafe. The world's first cat cafe, Cat Flower Garden, opened in Taipei in 1998.
Student report
I arrived by train, and was met at the station by a small committee of cats, who appeared to be waiting for someone else. I decided it was me.
The village is a reminder that a place can be given a second career by a group of very determined volunteers and a great many cats. I was impressed by the care taken, and I noted that the volunteers work hard.
I also visited the original cat cafe in Taipei. It was a good cafe. I was served nothing, and was very happy.