Okunoshima Island (Rabbit Island) | Hiroshima

Okunoshima Island, also known as Rabbit Island (ウサギの島, Usagi no Shima), is a small island located in the Seto Inland Sea off the coast of Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. The island is famous for its large population of wild rabbits, which roam freely throughout the island, making it a popular destination for animal lovers and tourists alike. However, the island has a complex history that goes beyond its cute inhabitants, as it was once the site of a secret military facility during World War II.

1. Overview

• Name: Okunoshima Island (Rabbit Island)
• Location: The island is part of Hiroshima Prefecture and lies in the Seto Inland Sea, between the cities of Hiroshima and Onomichi. It is located near the town of Takehara and is accessible by ferry from Tadanoumi or Omishima.
• Famous For: A population of hundreds of wild rabbits, which have become the main attraction, roaming freely around the island and interacting with visitors.

2. Rabbit Population

• Wild Rabbits: Okunoshima is home to a large number of wild rabbits, which are not afraid of human interaction. Visitors can feed and pet the rabbits, and the animals are a major draw for tourists. The rabbits are friendly, and the island has earned the nickname Rabbit Island due to their overwhelming presence.
• Origin of the Rabbits: The exact origin of the rabbits is not definitively known. Some theories suggest that they were brought to the island for scientific experiments in the early 20th century, while others believe that they were released by visitors or researchers. Over time, the rabbits have multiplied and formed a wild population that now freely roams the island.

3. History of Okunoshima Island

• World War II and the Poison Gas Factory: Okunoshima’s history is not just about its cute rabbits. The island was once the site of a poison gas production facility during World War II. The Japanese military used Okunoshima to manufacture chemical weapons, including mustard gas, which was produced and stored there in secret.
  • Chemical Weapons: During the war, Okunoshima Island was a major site for the production of chemical weapons for the Japanese Imperial Army. The facility was highly secretive, and the workers were sworn to secrecy, with many never learning the true purpose of their work.
  • Post-War Legacy: After the war, the chemical weapons production ceased, and the island’s toxic legacy remained. The area was later decontaminated, and in the years that followed, Okunoshima became known for its rabbits rather than its dark history.
• Public Awareness: Today, the island is not widely known for its military past, though it does have a Poison Gas Memorial Museum that educates visitors about the island's wartime role and the legacy of chemical weapons.

4. Main Attractions

• Rabbit Colony: The island’s main attraction is undoubtedly the wild rabbits. They roam freely in the parks, forests, and open fields, and are accustomed to human presence. Visitors often bring carrots and vegetables to feed them, although it’s recommended to be cautious and respectful when interacting with the animals.
• Poison Gas Memorial Museum: The Poison Gas Memorial Museum (毒ガス資料館, Doku Gas Shiryōkan) on the island provides a glimpse into Okunoshima’s role during World War II as a site for the production of chemical weapons. The museum features exhibits that cover the history of the factory, the production of mustard gas, and the environmental damage caused by the chemicals. There are also exhibits about the lives of the workers and the post-war decontamination efforts.
• Okunoshima Hotel: The island has a small hotel called the Okunoshima Hotel, which offers accommodations and dining options for those looking to spend more time on the island. The hotel is a popular choice for travelers who wish to experience the island’s tranquil environment and explore its unique history and wildlife.
• Beaches: Okunoshima Island also has a few small beaches where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery. The beaches provide beautiful views of the Seto Inland Sea and are great for a peaceful break.
• Walking Trails: The island features several walking trails, allowing visitors to explore its natural beauty. Some trails lead to scenic viewpoints that offer stunning vistas of the surrounding islands and the Seto Inland Sea.

5. How to Get There

• By Ferry: Okunoshima Island can be accessed by ferry from the nearby port of Tadanoumi or Omishima. The ferry ride is relatively short, taking about 15 minutes. From Tadanoumi Station, visitors can catch a ferry to Okunoshima, which operates several times a day.
• By Bicycle: Visitors can also rent bicycles on the island to explore the natural landscape at a leisurely pace.
• By Foot: The island is small, and visitors can easily walk around, with most attractions being within walking distance from the ferry terminal.

6. Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March to May): The best time to visit Okunoshima Island is during spring when the island’s cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The combination of blossoms and rabbits creates an unforgettable scenic experience.
• Autumn (September to November): The autumn season also provides a beautiful backdrop for the island, with the surrounding trees changing color to vibrant reds and yellows.
• Summer: The island can be a pleasant place to visit in summer as well, but it can also get quite hot, so visitors should be prepared for warm weather.

7. Visitor Tips

• Feeding the Rabbits: Visitors should be mindful when feeding the rabbits, as the animals may approach aggressively in search of food. It's best to feed them fresh vegetables such as carrots, but it is also important to avoid feeding them processed food or human snacks.
• Respect for the Animals: While the rabbits are friendly, visitors should always show respect and care for the animals, refraining from chasing them or causing them stress.
• Museum: If you're interested in the island's history, don’t miss the Poison Gas Memorial Museum to learn more about its past and the impact of the chemical weapons produced there.

8. Conclusion

Okunoshima Island (Rabbit Island) offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and history. The island's wild rabbits have made it a popular and charming destination, but it’s also a place with a complex past tied to World War II and the production of chemical weapons. The Poison Gas Memorial Museum serves as a reminder of this dark chapter in history, while the island’s peaceful walking trails, beaches, and adorable rabbits make it a memorable spot for visitors. Whether you're interested in nature, history, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, Okunoshima Island has something to offer.