By Javier Castro Bugarín
Houtong, Taiwan, May 15 (EFE).- Nestled in the mountains of northern Taiwan lies a village that traded decades of coal mining for a profound love of cats.
Houtong, approximately 40 minutes by train from Taipei, is home to around 200 stray cats, living in restaurants, cafes, shops, and monuments dedicated to these beloved felines.
Most of these cats are quite accustomed to human presence, allowing themselves to be petted and fed. However, authorities stress the importance of approaching them cautiously, maintaining strict hand hygiene, and respecting their personal space.
Visitors typically adhere to these recommendations, observing the cats from a distance. Yet, sometimes the cats themselves seek affection, leading to joyous interactions filled with laughter and purring.
The village, once known as «monkey cave» in Mandarin, gained fame during the Japanese occupation a century ago due to its abundant coal reserves.
Lured by employment opportunities, hundreds of people moved to the area to work in the mines, where more than half of Taiwan’s annual coal production was extracted.
However, the collapse of the coal industry in the 1990s led to a decline in the area’s fortunes, with many residents leaving for urban areas. Houtong lost its allure, going from 6,000 residents in its heyday to just over 100.
The village’s revival came unexpectedly in 2008 when a Taiwanese photographer captured the community’s efforts to care for the stray cats.
Her images circulated online, turning Houtong into a pilgrimage site for cat enthusiasts of all kinds.
Today, the village boasts a vibrant cat-centric atmosphere, with cats of various colors and temperaments roaming freely. Local businesses embrace the feline spirit, selling cat-themed merchandise and donning cat-inspired attire.
The feline atmosphere is palpable as soon as you leave the train station. No matter where you look, there are cats everywhere, whether sleeping on a ledge, lounging in the grass, or strolling the streets in search of food or affection.
The village maintains a volunteer service dedicated to sterilizing, caring for, and facilitating the adoption of cats. However, challenges persist, including cases of pet abandonment and theft.
Nevertheless, Houtong’s residents cherish their second chance, finding solace and purpose in their enduring love for these animals. EFE
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