Feline paradise in Taiwan

A cat poses for cameras on Sept 7, 2011 in Houdong township in Taiwan. [Photo/ Xinhua]

A tourist takes photos of cats in Houdong township in Taiwan on Sept 7, 2011. [Photo/ Xinhua]

Cute signs on every corner of Houdong township in Taiwan remind tourists of the importance of respecting cats’ rights. [Photo/ Xinhua]

A cat watches tourists in Houdong township in Taiwan on Sept 7, 2011. [Photo/ Xinhua]

Standardized cat dwellings made by local residents in Houdong township in Taiwan on Sept 7, 2011. [Photo/ Xinhua]

A tourist caresses a cat in Houdong township in Taiwan on Sept 7, 2011. [Photo/ Xinhua]

Famous for its coal mining industry in the past, the Houdong township in Taiwan is now a paradise for cats and a hot spot for cat-loving tourists. Kept by coal miners for catching snakes and mice, the cats are now befriended by local residents and live harmoniously with them in the area, which attracts tourists in great numbers.

Cat-themed shops and cafes are popular with the tourists and a cat-related creative industry has been incorporated into the local government’s tourism development program.