Cover image via @bijutsu1 (X)
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Ken-chan, the black cat who became world-famous for repeatedly trying (and adorably failing) to sneak into the Onomichi City Museum of Art in Hiroshima since 2016, has passed away peacefully
The museum announced the sad news on X on 11 November, sharing that Ken-chan had been receiving treatment before his passing on 20 September.
The date of the announcement was also meaningful as it marked the anniversary of the day Ken-chan officially became part of the museum's family.
"We will never forget our days with Ken-chan. Thank you," the museum wrote in its touching tribute.
Ken-chan's fame began almost a decade ago, when videos of him being politely (but firmly) turned away by the museum's security guard started going viral
His persistence and the gentle, good-natured 'rivalry' between him and the guard charmed millions of fans worldwide.
The museum often shared photos and clips of their friendly stand-offs, including moments where Ken-chan dramatically 'gave up' and flopped on the ground after being stopped.
時をかける猫ニャ486 "Cats Who Leapt Through Time" (20181109)
— 尾道市立美術館 (@bijutsu1) November 8, 2025
『フェイント👮♂️🐈⬛feint』ちょうど 7年前🎨「入られんよぉ」との声を聞きながら🐈⬛ゴロン🎵 #尾道市立美館 #尾道 #猫動画 pic.twitter.com/WvjOzgeHon
Even so, he kept returning, earning himself legendary status online and inspiring countless memes, illustrations, and fan art.
It even inspired official merch to be sold at the museum:
After news of his passing broke, tributes from fans poured in
Visitors shared old photos and videos of Ken-chan lingering near the entrance, sometimes accompanied by his orange feline friend, Go-chan, who also tried to sneak in.
According to the museum, Go-chan was adopted in 2019 after briefly being allowed to enter the museum.
Mothership also reported that Ken-chan, who actually belongs to a nearby restaurant, was eventually allowed into the museum briefly in 2018.
Even the museum's security guard, Ken-chan's long-time 'opponent', spoke fondly of the cat in a local interview: "Even now, it feels like he'll come from around that corner.
"This is the first cat that got so attached to me, thank you for the memories," he added.
According to the museum, 500 copies of the upcoming 2026 Ken-chan calendar have been produced, featuring some of the beloved cat's best moments.
While Ken-chan may no longer be waiting by the museum doors, his legacy and his playful spirit will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved him.
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