Welcome to Rabbit Island
Ōkunoshima, affectionately known as Rabbit Island, is a small Japanese gem situated in the tranquil Seto Inland Sea, a short distance from Hiroshima's
coast. This island is renowned for its extraordinary population of over 1,000 rabbits, who freely roam its landscapes, greeting visitors with an unusual level of friendliness. The exact origins of this abundant rabbit community remain a subject of debate among experts. One prominent theory links their presence to the island's historical use by the Japanese Imperial Army in the late 1920s as a testing ground for chemical weapons, including poison gas. During this era, rabbits were part of the experiments, and it's speculated that some of these lab animals may have been released into the wild. Alternatively, a more lighthearted explanation suggests that a group of schoolchildren introduced rabbits to Ōkunoshima in the 1970s, allowing them to proliferate freely. Regardless of their genesis, these animals have become the island's main draw, contributing significantly to its unique charm and attracting a considerable number of tourists each year.
Island Attractions & Visitor Etiquette
Today, Ōkunoshima draws an impressive crowd of up to 100,000 visitors annually, a significant number considering its size, with roughly 100 people for every rabbit. Tourists flock to the island primarily to interact with and feed the charming bunnies, but the island offers more than just its furry inhabitants. Visitors can also enjoy its beautiful, swimmable beaches and relax in two soothing hot springs. However, the island's popularity has introduced challenges, particularly concerning the rabbits' well-being. Inconsistent feeding by visitors, often with unsuitable food, can negatively impact their health and shorten their lifespans. Therefore, it's crucial for visitors to adhere to responsible tourism practices. Refrain from offering the rabbits your personal food. Instead, opt for specially formulated rabbit food, which can be conveniently purchased at the ferry port. For an even more considerate approach, consider observing the rabbits from a respectful distance without feeding them at all. This ensures their health and preserves their natural behavior for future visitors.
Exploring Ōkunoshima's Past and Present
Beyond the playful rabbits and scenic beaches, Ōkunoshima holds a significant and somber historical dimension. To fully appreciate the island, it's essential to learn about its past. The entire island is easily navigable by bicycle, and for those who prefer a guided experience, cycles can be rented or tours booked at the island's sole hotel. This offers a convenient way to explore its various points of interest. In addition to its natural attractions, the island houses a sobering Poison Gas Museum, which provides a crucial educational insight into its wartime history. This museum serves as a stark reminder of the island's use as a chemical weapons research facility. Ōkunoshima is accessible via a ferry service departing from Tadanoumi Station, located in the small city of Takehara. This makes it a popular and feasible day trip destination for individuals visiting the wider Hiroshima region, allowing them to experience both the island's delightful present and its impactful past within a single visit.
