Japan appoints a calico cat as new stationmaster

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In Japan, a cat named Yontama has been given the job of stationmaster, continuing a unique tradition that started almost 20 years ago.

It’s normal to see stationmasters at train stations. But at Kishi Station, the stationmasters are cats, and that’s what makes it so special.

Yontama, a nine-year-old calico cat, became the third feline stationmaster at Wakayama Electric Railway’s Kishigawa Line on January 7, 2026.

I recently read that this amazing tradition has been going on for almost twenty years now, and it’s had a real impact! It’s not just adorable – these cats have actually helped bring more tourists to the area, and unbelievably, they’ve even played a part in rescuing the local railway line, which was struggling before. It’s incredible to see how much good these little felines are doing!

Yontama clocks in as new stationmaster at Kishi Station

A ceremony was held at the station to officially welcome Yontama. President Kojima presented her with both a letter of appointment and a medallion bearing her title.

Yontama isn’t the first cat to have this job. It started in 2007 with a cat named Tama. When Tama passed away in 2012, another cat named Nitama stepped into the role and continued until November 2025.

It was a while after Nitama passed away that someone new stepped into the role. That person was Yontama.

Although Yontama is new to Kishi Station, she’s experienced with railway work. She used to be the stationmaster at Idakiso Station, so she’s familiar with the job.

She wasn’t the only one highlighted at the event. The ceremony near Kishi Station also unveiled Rokutama, who is being considered as the future Stationmaster.

The railway president explained that Rokutama is still learning the ropes, comparing her to a student who’s been put to work before finishing school.

Therefore, she is now considered a potential successor. Whether she will ultimately achieve the same level of success as Yontama remains to be seen.

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2026-01-13 08:48