Rabbit Island: Japan’s Cutest Hidden Destination You Need to Visit
Concealed from view within the Inland Sea of Japan lies a charming, off-the-grid haven that has stolen the hearts of wildlife lovers and travelers alike. It is simply called Rabbit Island, where this peaceful retreat offers a special experience where visitors can interact with hundreds of friendly, free-roaming rabbits within a tranquil, natural setting. Whether you’re an animal enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone looking to escape the typical tourist trail, Rabbit Island is a destination that will leave a lasting impression.
What Is Rabbit Island?
Rabbit Island is the unofficial name of Ōkunoshima, a small island in Hiroshima Prefecture. The island itself is a mere 4 kilometers in circumference, but has a population of over 1,000 wild rabbits that live in the forests, trails, and even beaches. The rabbits are incredibly tame and can be seen wandering towards strangers in anticipation of getting food or attention.
Their origin, though, is disputed. Some say they were brought in as part of a school science project and released after the experiment was abandoned. Others believe that the bunnies are descendants of pets left behind by the old residents. Whatever their origin, these bunny residents have completely transformed the character of the island, once a secret wartime base, to one of Japan’s sweetest travel gems.
A Surprising History Behind the Cuteness
While Rabbit Island is now well known for its cute inhabitants, the island has a dark but rich past. The island was used as a very top-secret place to manufacture chemical weapons during World War II. The island was used because it was isolated, and the activities were kept hidden from the public.
The installations were destroyed post-war, and the island was removed from maps for a while. Today, remnants of those days continue to be present in the form of preserved structures and the Poison Gas Museum, where one is educated about the island’s contribution during the war. Such contrast between its black past and peaceful present makes Rabbit Island an even more fascinating destination to go to.
How to Get to Rabbit Island
Getting to Rabbit Island is relatively easy and adds to the adventure of the trip. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Start from Hiroshima: Take the JR Sanyo Line to Tadanoumi Station, which takes about two hours from Hiroshima City.
- Walk to the Ferry Terminal: Tadanoumi Port is just a 5-minute walk from the station.
- Take the Ferry to Ōkunoshima: Ferries run regularly and take about 15 minutes to reach the island.
Make sure to check ferry schedules in advance, especially if you’re visiting in winter or during Japanese holidays, when the area gets more visitors than usual.
What to Do on Rabbit Island
Despite its small size, Rabbit Island offers a surprising variety of activities:
Meet the Rabbits
Of course, the main attraction is spending time with the rabbits. Bring rabbit-safe food like leafy greens, carrots, or rabbit pellets (never human snacks or bread), and you’ll quickly find yourself surrounded by curious bunnies. There are designated feeding areas and clear signs explaining what’s safe for them to eat.
Explore the Nature Trails
The island is surrounded by walking paths and hiking trails that command scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea. Whether strolling casually or hiking for a short while, the idyllic landscape is ideal for slowing your pace and reconnecting with the natural world.
Visit the Poison Gas Museum
For an even greater understanding of the island’s past, go to the little but awe inspiring museum detailing its involvement in the war. It is a sobering look at how the island was transformed and a tribute to those who lived through it.
Stay Overnight
Although most people only spend a day on Rabbit Island, spending the night there lets you witness the island at its most serene. There is one main hotel, Kyukamura Ōkunoshima, that offers traditional Japanese rooms, dining, and even rental bikes to cover more of the island.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Rabbit Island?
Rabbit Island is a place that can be visited at any time of the year, but the best times to go are spring and autumn. These seasons offer nice weather and the most beautiful scenery—cherry blossoms in spring and autumn, and red leaves. Summer is warm and muggy, and the rabbits nap in the shade at midday. Winter is the off-season with fewer tourists, and the rabbits are in a better mood to interact since fewer humans have offerings for them. Whatever the season, it helps to arrive early in the morning when the island has fewer visitors and rabbits are at their most active.
Tips for a Great Experience
- Bring Rabbit Food: You can’t buy rabbit food on the island, so bring some with you from the mainland. Pet stores or supermarkets often sell safe options like pellets or veggies.
- Be Gentle: The rabbits are friendly but still wild animals. Avoid chasing, picking up, or frightening them.
- Leave No Trace: Keep the island neat by disposing of trash very well and respecting the natural environment.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, so comfortable shoes are a must.
- Check the Weather: There’s limited shelter on the island, so plan accordingly for rain or strong sun.
Why Rabbit Island Is Worth Visiting
In a world where travel is often high-speed and commodified, Rabbit Island offers the only type of travel experience that is slow, uncomplicated, and full of such sweet moments. Witnessing rabbits frolic freely in the background of glimmering sea views and forest roads is like stepping into a fairy tale. Apart from cuteness, the island also invites reflection. Its dualism—cute animal refuge and historic site—adds substance to any visit, allowing visitors to link not only with nature but with a piece of Japan’s tangled history.
Whether you’re drawn to the prospect of furry companionship or fascinated by its hidden past, Rabbit Island offers an adventure never to be repeated. It’s a place where time stands still, the noise of civilization recedes, and all that’s left is the rustling of wind, waves, and soft thud of rabbit paws. For anyone who wishes to experience the quieter, more alternative face of Japan, Rabbit Island is essential. Just be warned—you may leave with nothing but cute photos; you may leave with a heart full of joy and the urge to return.
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