Meet Tama: The Cat Who Saved a Japanese Railway

Once upon a time in Japan, a cat named Tama became a legendary figure in the railway industry, turning around the fortunes of a struggling railway station.

Tama's Humble Beginnings

In 2006, Kishi station faced the threat of closure due to low ridership. Tama, one of the many stray cats living at the station, would become the savior of the railway.

Tama's Rise to Fame

When the railway president decided to remove the stray cats, the Kishi station manager fought to keep Tama. Her presence brought good luck, and with a gold name tag around her neck, Tama was officially welcomed as the stationmaster.

Tama's Impact

The introduction of Tama as the stationmaster led to a remarkable 17% increase in ridership that month. Riders were charmed by her, and her fame only grew from there.

Tama's Promotion

In 2008, Tama was promoted to Super Station Master in a grand ceremony attended by hundreds of people. She received a new office complete with a private bathroom, which was a ticket booth with a litter box inside.

Tama's Legacy

Tama's success continued to soar, saving the railway from bankruptcy. Her legacy lived on with the appointment of her apprentice, Nitama, who proved to be just as adept at the job.

Tama's Passing and Succession

After Tama's passing in 2015 at the age of 16, Nitama took over as the new station master following a 50-day mourning period. Last year, Nitama was bestowed the additional title of chief priest of Tama Shrine, overlooking the shrine on the station platform.

Tama's Lineage Continues

Today, Nitama is joined by her own apprentice, Yontama, who helps maintain the station when Nitama takes a day off. Together, they carry on Tama's remarkable legacy, ensuring that her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who visit Kishi station.