Okunoshima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea, perfect for a day trip departing from Hiroshima. Known as “Rabbit Island” due to its hundreds of friendly rabbits, this unique destination attracts visitors from around the world, who come to interact with these adorable animals. You can even bring fresh vegetables to feed them, making it a wonderful spot for both animal lovers and families. However, alongside its charm, Okunoshima also bears a dark history, as it was once used as a site for poison gas production during the WWII.
To reach Okunoshima, you’ll take a 15-minute boat ride that offers picturesque views of the Seto Inland Sea along the way. Upon arrival, scenic trails await you, leading to areas where you can meet the rabbits up close and take photos of them with the gorgeous sea in the background. Visitors can also feed the rabbits, which greatly adds to the fun. It’s recommended to bring vegetables like carrots or cabbage, as rabbit food isn’t always available on the island. This is a delight for both visitors and the rabbits, making for a very memorable experience.
After World War II, Okunojima remained uninhabited for years, but the rabbit population thrived and became the island’s main attraction. However, the origin of these rabbits remains a mystery. Some believe they were brought here during the war for chemical testing, while others suggest a British couple introduced them or that a nearby school released them. Regardless of their origin, the rabbits are free-roaming, and visitors are asked to treat them with respect.
Don’t miss the iconic rabbit ear sculpture, where you can snap a playful photo, using the rabbit ears as hats.
For easy access, a free shuttle bus takes visitors to the island’s central resort area. As part of a national park, Okunojima features a Visitor Center introducing the island’s natural environment and its history. You’ll find numerous trails, historical sites, and scenic areas on the coastline to explore. Those seeking panoramic vistas can hike to the observation deck at the island’s highest point, a 30-minute walk from the campground area.
Here, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding verdant islands. Along the trails, you’ll encounter a variety of rabbits, each with unique behaviors—some social, some shy–that make for fun viewing.
Okunojima is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, where visitors can enjoy beach walks, hiking, and camping. The island’s sandy beaches are a great place to relax, while the nature trails and forested areas offer encounters with all kinds of wildlife that allow for a wonderful escape from your daily worries. Since vehicles are not allowed on the island, small children are free to run around and explore. For those who want to explore the island and interact with its lovely inhabitants at a more leisurely pace, the island also offers overnight accommodation options.
Okunojima isn’t just a haven for rabbits; it is also a dark tourism destination, that provides thought-provoking history. Between 1929 and 1945, the island served as a secret poison gas production base for the Japanese military, an operation so classified that Okunojima was removed from official maps. This information remained hidden until 1984, and today, visitors can explore preserved historical sites to learn about this solemn past.
The Okunojima Poison Gas Museum is housed in a small brown building near the island’s village. Dedicated to preventing the loss of this historical memory, the museum displays artifacts like tools and records from the war. This space attracts many visitors interested in learning about the dangers of chemical warfare and its impact on humanity.
A two-minute walk from Okunojima’s second pier, the power plant ruins are a stark reminder of the island’s industrial history. Originally used to power the gas facilities, the ruins now stand empty but make for a fascinating and atmospheric photo backdrop.
A day trip to Okunojima combines natural beauty, history, and heartwarming interactions with adorable rabbits. Once a hidden military site, it’s now a charming destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re feeding rabbits, enjoying the beautiful views, or learning about the island’s past, Okunojima promises an unforgettable experience.
<Content & Images>
All images not owned by WaWo Japan Travel were obtained from the following sources:
★ Takeharakankou
[https://www.takeharakankou.jp/spot/4346]
★ Rabbit Island Info
★ Setouchi Rabbit Shop
Please hover over the images for specific credits.
<Author>
Jolene QIU
Travel Consultant at WaWo Japan Travel