The Mystery of the Missing Third Tama

Many train lovers know about Tama, the famous cat that saved a Japanese railway from bankruptcy. They might also know about her successor Nitama (second Tama) and apprentice Yontama (fourth Tama). But there's been a curious gap in the feline leadership line - what happened to Santama, the third Tama?

Meet Sun-Tama-Tama

The mystery has a heartwarming answer. Santama, more commonly known as Sun-Tama-Tama, was originally training to become Nitama's apprentice at Okayama Station. This career path would have eventually led her to the famous Kishi Station.

But something unexpected happened. The staff at Okayama Station formed such a strong bond with Sun-Tama-Tama that they refused to let her transfer.

A Cat Too Beloved to Transfer

In fact, the Okayama Public Relations Representative who cared for Sun-Tama-Tama made an official statement about it. The representative declared, "I will not let go of this child. She will stay in Okayama."

And that's exactly what happened. Sun-Tama-Tama remained at Okayama Station, where she now serves as the official station master.

A Different Kind of Station Master

While Sun-Tama-Tama doesn't wear the same station master caps that the cats at Kishi Station do, she has her own special style. She loves dressing up for holidays and special events. Last Halloween, she wore an adorable costume that delighted visitors to the station.

Following Sun-Tama-Tama's Adventures

Fans of these railway cats will be happy to know that the Okayama railway station regularly posts pictures and videos of Sun-Tama-Tama. These posts give people a chance to keep up with her daily activities and special appearances.

The story of Sun-Tama-Tama shows how these station cats become more than just mascots - they become beloved members of their communities, forming bonds strong enough to change career paths and warm the hearts of train passengers and staff alike.