Houtong Cat Village (猴硐貓村)
There is something for cat lovers to see in Taiwan - the Houtong Cat Village (猴硐貓村). We had a really great time here. I love cats, and I really miss my pets that I had to leave in Poland. Unfortunately, I can't keep any cats or dogs now, which makes me upset, so it's a happier experience for me to visit this place.
The Houtong Village is surrounded by hills and has a beautiful river. Houtong is a small coal mining town that was built during the Japanese era. The village attracted over 6,000 workers and produced the highest amount of coal in Taiwan. However, in 1990, with the end of the coal industry, many people left this place, and the population of the village dwindled to less than 100 people.
In 2008, a cat lover began to care for abandoned cats in Houtong. After posting pictures online, Houtong once again became a tourist destination. Some people say that the number of cats here is 200+. You can find them sleeping anywhere, on rooftops, in flower pots, and even inside shops. Most of the cats are strays and wild but have become accustomed to people. And don't worry, they are looked after by a volunteer team with veterinary care.
You can find many shops around with food, drinks, and cat-themed souvenirs. Many times you will see signs not to feed or tease the cats, although many people still feed them and play with them when they get the chance. On weekends, Houtong is really full of tourists.
You can also visit the old mine. Ruisan Mine was built in 1940 and was the largest coal mine in Taiwan. The mine is 100 meters underground and 4 kilometers deep. You can ride inside the original diesel car and visit the museum with old photos and mining relics.
According to news in 2019, the number of cats has risen to about 50 more, totaling nearly 300 cats in Houtong. According to locals, it has become a magnet for people wanting to abandon their pets.
The village is just crazy about cats, with everything cat-related. There are cat decorations, music consisting of "meow," and you will find ceramic cats, cat-themed notepads, phone covers, socks, temporary tattoos, fridge magnets, and many more cat-themed items!
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