Daily routines, whether big or small, quietly shape the rhythm of our lives and give us a sense of comfort and familiarity. In the city of Hiroshima, Japan, there is one particular routine that has captured hearts around the world, and it unfolds each morning at the Onomichi City Museum of Art. As the museum’s security guard begins his shift, he knows he will not be alone for long. Two very determined visitors, unexpected, uninvited, yet warmly welcomed, always arrive, hoping for entry and lingering long enough to receive affectionate 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.
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
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This content was created with AI assistance and edited by the iHeartCats team.