The 'fukui-ishi' stones are specifically painted to represent 'lucky' cats and are intentionally placed to be discovered by visitors.
The alley connects the Ushitora Shrine area to the path leading toward the Onomichi City Museum of Art.
Artist Sonoyama Shunji began the project as an informal way to bring life to the neglected, crumbling retaining walls of the city.
The location is part of the broader 'Temple Walk' route of Onomichi, which is famous for its high concentration of resident cats.
The path is intentionally designed to be unmanicured, preserving the authentic feel of the old hillside neighborhood.
Neko no Hosomichi, or Cat Alley, is a steep, winding stone pathway in Onomichi’s hillside district known for its pervasive cat-themed decor and local art installations. The trail features approximately 1,000 'fukui-ishi'—stones painted as cats by local artist Sonoyama Shunji. These stones are placed throughout the path, nestled into walls, stairs, and hidden corners. While the area is synonymous with feline motifs, it serves as an atmospheric walking route connecting several hillside temples and small galleries. The pathway maintains an organic, overgrown aesthetic typical of Onomichi's older residential zones. Visitors navigate a labyrinthine series of narrow, pedestrian-only stone steps. The route is integrated into the city’s historic temple district. Several small, independently operated cafes and shops are tucked into the repurposed old houses along the trail.
The junction where the stone-cat-lined path meets the stairs offering a panoramic view of the Onomichi port below.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes with good grip, as the path consists of uneven stone steps and steep slopes.
Bring a portable fan or heat-relief gear during mid-summer as the hillside retains significant humidity and heat.
Explore the side-paths branching off the main trail to find smaller, hidden art installations and quiet viewpoints.
Do not attempt to navigate the alley with large suitcases or heavy luggage, as the stairs are steep and narrow.
Respect the privacy of the local residents whose homes line the narrow path; keep noise levels low.
