The next time you catch a bus to Hualien, you may have an opportunity to greet the station’s newest employee: an orange tabby named “Egg Tart” whose job it is to welcome and comfort visitors at the station’s tourist information desk.

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The next time you catch a bus to Hualien, you may have an opportunity to greet the station’s newest employee: an orange tabby named “Egg Tart.” Wearing his own yellow uniform and greeting visitors with wide eyes and enthusiasm, Egg Tart is already a big hit at the station. 

The only thing more famous than his looks is his love of snacks. While he’s well on his way to earning the reputation of the cutest glutton in Hualien, his drive for food is also what led to his discovery and adoption.

Hualien Deputy Station Manager Chen An-te (陳安德) explains that in June of last year, employees frequently reported hearing a cat around the station. At the same time, the fish sticks employees sold as snacks seemed to be opened or eaten. Everything finally clicked into place when the thief, Egg Tart, was caught.

Far from being upset, however, the employees decided by majority vote to adopt Egg Tart and give him both a job and a home – kickstarting the adorable little thief’s new life.

Chen says the station established a tourist information center on July 1, where Egg Tart now ‘works.’ His job? To welcome and comfort visitors, with his hours guided by his mood rather than forcing him to be out at certain times.

Egg Tart’s presence is already a highlight for travelers. If you’re worried about missing him, Chen assures that the employees post his hours on Facebook, adding that if riders see the cat at his designated spot, they’re welcome to pet him.

From stealing snacks to becoming the new star employee of the Hualien Bus Station, Egg Tart’s comeback story has touched locals and tourists alike – adding a new sweet surprise for anyone taking the bus to Hualien.

Amanda Stephens, for Rti News