What Is Okunoshima (Rabbit Island)?
Okunoshima is a small island in the Seto Inland Sea in Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture, and it’s world-famous as “Rabbit Island”.
The island is home to many rabbits, making it a special place where visitors can relax and be soothed by their presence.
Okunoshima also has a complex history: during World War II, it was a base for poison gas production. Today, however, it draws people from Japan and abroad as a sightseeing destination where rabbits and beautiful nature coexist.
Designated as part of Setonaikai National Park, this popular Hiroshima spot can be enjoyed as a day trip or with an overnight stay.
In this guide, we’ll introduce Okunoshima’s highlights, how to enjoy your visit, and practical travel tips.
Top Things to Do on Okunoshima
1. Meet and Interact with the Rabbits
The biggest draw of Okunoshima is, without a doubt, spending time with the rabbits.
Wherever you go on the island, rabbits roam freely and often approach visitors with friendly curiosity.
Early morning and late afternoon are especially good times, since rabbits tend to be more active and you’ll have more chances to see many of them.
Tips for Interacting with Rabbits
- Bring rabbit food in advance (vegetables like cabbage or carrots, or rabbit pellets). It can be hard to find on the island, so it’s safest to prepare near Tadanoumi Port.
- When feeding, crouch down and approach gently so you don’t startle them.
- Do not give rabbits dangerous foods (bread, snacks, green onions/leeks, etc.).
- Avoid picking up or chasing rabbits, as this can cause injury.
You’re sure to feel soothed by their adorable behaviors.
2. Okunoshima Poison Gas Museum
Okunoshima is also a historical site where poison gas weapons were secretly manufactured by the former Japanese military during World War II.
On the island, you can visit the Okunoshima Poison Gas Museum, which displays documents, photographs, and equipment such as gas masks from that era.
Admission fees vary by category.
It’s a place to learn the island’s history and deepen your understanding while reflecting on the message of peace.
3. Beautiful Natural Scenery
Okunoshima is part of Setonaikai National Park, and its beautiful natural landscapes are a major highlight.
- Coastal walking trail: The promenade that loops around the island is about 4 km, typically taking around an hour. The blue sea and green forests make for a relaxing stroll.
- Observation deck: Enjoy sweeping views over the Seto Inland Sea’s islands from the island’s lookout point.
Seasonal scenery is part of the charm—cherry blossoms bloom in spring (late March to early April), and autumn leaves appear in fall (mid to late November).
4. Accommodation and Camping
The island has the lodging facility Kyukamura Okunoshima as well as a campsite.
- Kyukamura Okunoshima: The island’s only accommodation, where you can enjoy Setouchi cuisine made with fresh local ingredients and soak in natural hot springs.
- Campsite: Rent a tent and enjoy an outdoor stay surrounded by nature—with rabbits nearby.
A day trip is plenty enjoyable, but staying overnight lets you experience the quiet atmosphere of the island in the early morning and evening, along with more active rabbits.
5. Historical Ruins
Okunoshima still has remnants of former poison gas factories and military facilities scattered across the island.
- Power plant ruins and battery ruins: Abandoned structures now reclaimed by nature create a unique, atmospheric scene.
- Poison gas storage ruins: Facilities remain as they were, offering a powerful sense of history’s weight.
This is a place where history and nature intersect, offering visitors a wide range of experiences.
How to Get to Okunoshima
Ferry from Tadanoumi Port
Okunoshima is an island you can only reach by boat.
The most common route is taking a ferry or passenger ship from Tadanoumi Port (Tadanoumi) in Takehara City, Hiroshima Prefecture.
- Travel time: about 15 minutes
- Number of services: varies by season and other factors
- Fare: 360 yen one-way for adults, 720 yen round-trip
To reach Tadanoumi Port, walk about 7 minutes from JR Kure Line “Tadanoumi Station.”
There is free parking at Tadanoumi Port, making it convenient for travelers arriving by car.
Access from Mihara Port
From Mihara Port (Mihara City, Hiroshima), a reservation-only service may operate depending on the period.
It’s an easy option for Shinkansen travelers, with Mihara Port about a 5-minute walk from JR Mihara Station.
Practical Travel Info
What to Bring and Key Tips
- Rabbit food: Buy vegetables like cabbage and carrots, or rabbit pellets, at shops around Tadanoumi Port before boarding.
- Comfortable shoes: The island has both paved and gravel paths, so sneakers are recommended.
- Water bottle: Vending machines are limited on the island, so especially in summer, bring extra to prevent heatstroke.
- Trash bag: There are no trash bins on the island. Take your garbage home with you.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March to May): Mild weather with cherry blossoms—sometimes you may even see baby rabbits.
- Autumn (October to November): Pleasant temperatures and beautiful fall colors.
Summer can be very hot, and rabbits often rest in the shade during the day, so visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended.
How to Avoid Crowds
On weekends and holidays from spring through autumn, ferries can get crowded and you may not be able to board.
Taking an earlier departure or visiting on a weekday is the best way to enjoy the island comfortably.
If you want to ensure a seat, consider using the reservation-only service from Mihara Port when available.
Summary
Okunoshima (Rabbit Island) is a special place where the Seto Inland Sea’s beautiful nature and countless rabbits soothe visitors.
With walks around the island and explorations of historical ruins, the entire island feels like one big attraction.
Why not create unforgettable travel memories on Okunoshima—a place to relax, reset, and spend time with rabbits away from everyday life?
When you visit Hiroshima, be sure to add this island to your itinerary.
