A nine year old calico cat named Yontama has officially clocked in as the newest stationmaster of Kishi Station on Japan’s Wakayama Electric Railway, continuing a heartwarming tradition that dates back nearly two decades and has helped transform a once struggling railway line into a thriving tourist destination. During her inauguration ceremony, Yontama received a letter of appointment and a special medallion with her title engraved on it from railway president Mitsunobu Kojima, making her the third feline to hold this prestigious position at the station. The tradition began back in 2007 when a cat named Tama was appointed as the original stationmaster, and after Tama passed away in 2012, her successor Nitama took over the role until November 2025, leaving the position vacant until Yontama’s arrival.
While Yontama is new to Kishi Station, she’s no stranger to railway work, having previously served as stationmaster at nearby Idakiso Station where she gained valuable experience managing her duties. The feline appointments have done far more than simply melt hearts, as the adorable stationmasters have helped boost tourism dramatically and played a crucial role in saving the railway line from financial struggles over the years. Yontama won’t be working alone either, as the ceremony also introduced Rokutama, a stationmaster candidate who is currently in training and described by the railway president as being similar to a student who’s been sent into service before completing their studies. The tradition proves that sometimes the most unexpected solutions create the most wonderful outcomes, and these working cats have become beloved symbols of community charm while keeping an important piece of local transportation history alive and thriving for future generations to enjoy.
Source: https://www.dexerto.com/entertainment/japan-appoints-a-calico-cat-as-new-stationmaster-3303801/
