Routines often shape our daily lives, whether we realize it or not. In Hiroshima, Japan, there’s a heartwarming routine that plays out every morning at the Onomichi City Museum of Art. As the security guard takes his position each day, he’s soon met by two unexpected visitors trying to enter the museum without an invite. But before he shoos them away, they always get a few friendly chin scratches.
Yes, you guessed it—these sneaky visitors are cats! A fluffy orange feline named Go-chan and a sleek black cat named Ken-chan have made it their mission to show up at the museum every day since 2016. Their story began when the museum hosted a photography exhibit featuring cats, which somehow attracted strays from across the city. When the exhibit wrapped up, most of the cats went on their way, but Go-chan and Ken-chan decided to stick around!
What’s interesting is that these cats have their favorite security guard. Ken-chan will only attempt to sneak inside if *his* guard is on duty. On days when the guard is absent, Ken-chan casually lounges on the sidewalk instead, patiently waiting. As for Go-chan, he doesn’t even bother coming around if his favorite guard isn’t there. Their loyalty is not just about the museum, it’s about the bond they’ve formed with this particular person.
During the coronavirus pandemic, when the museum had to close for two months, these furry companions didn’t break their habit. The cats faithfully turned up every single day, as if keeping a watch over the place themselves.
Although both cats do have homes, they seem to enjoy their morning routine of stretching their legs on the way to the museum. And who can blame them? After all, we all have our little rituals.
The museum staff and visitors have embraced these cats’ charming persistence. Photos and videos of Ken-chan and Go-chan’s daily antics have been shared online, quickly turning them into internet sensations. Ken-chan even sports a custom collar featuring the museum’s logo now! Plus, the gift shop now sells merchandise inspired by the two cats, so it seems like the museum doesn’t mind their daily attempts to sneak in after all.
These poor kitties were rescued from an animal cruelty case where they were starved, locked in cages with inches of feces, and received no water or food. Now, these cats need your help!
Cats have a knack for sensing good people, and it’s clear this security guard has made a lasting impression on them. And honestly, who wouldn’t appreciate a little dose of feline friendship every morning?
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『おはニャ。⬛Good morning.』(20220420) 開館前、久しぶりに正面に。。遅いニャー！#尾道 #尾道市立美術館 #猫 #cat pic.twitter.com/nNZwCGPWqC
— 尾道市立美術館 (@bijutsu1) April 19, 2022