Yes, the title says it all.
It is an absolute paradise for all rabbit enthusiasts!
This island (Okunoshima) has a fascinating history, once serving as a site for poison gas production during World War II. But today, it’s known far and wide as ‘rabbit island,’ where you can have the most delightful encounters with hundreds of wild rabbits.
These furry residents are just waiting for you to visit. You can feed them directly, either with fresh, wholesome vegetables or specially crafted rabbit pellets. And here’s the best part: you can easily get your hands on these bunny treats when you arrive, either at the port or on the island itself.
A DAY TRIP
Before you can set foot on the island, catch a ferry at Tadanoumi Port. The 15-minute ferry ride departs approximately every 30-45 minutes, and the port is just a short 3-minute walk from Tadanoumi JR Station. To ensure you have a variety of food options, it’s a good idea to grab your snacks and meals before boarding the ferry. There’s a convenience store near Tadanoumi JR Station and a few restaurants in the vicinity.
Meet and Greet the Bunnies
Upon arriving on the island, you’ll be warmly welcomed by bunnies of different sizes and colors. Be prepared for a delightful bunny swarm, especially if you bring fresh veggies or pellets. These adorable creatures will be your companions throughout the island.
Photo: My husband and I during our first visit to the island in 2016.
Explore on Two Wheels
Given the island’s size, I recommend renting a bicycle to explore with ease. It’s a fun and efficient way to navigate the island’s charms.
Image Credit: Okunoshima, Japan’s Rabbit Island – The Crowded Planet
Take a Scenic Hike
Enjoy a bit of hiking and treat yourself to a 360-degree panoramic ocean view when you reach the summit. The vista is simply unparalleled, with layers of small islands stretching as far as the eye can see. To embark on this adventure, start at the trailhead between the campsite and the visitor center. The views along the way are nothing short of breathtaking.
Photo: My sister, Wendyl, during our visit in 2023.
Poison Gas Museum
The island’s unique combination of adorable rabbits and a dark wartime history gives it an intriguing mystique. Previously a hub for chemical weapons research and production in complete secrecy until 1945, the island now houses a museum that preserves the memory of Japan’s WWII history, particularly its harsh aspects.
Image Credit: The Gateway to Rabbit Island | Official Site (rabbit-island.info)
Beach Bliss
If you’re traveling with little ones, don’t miss the chance to let them enjoy the beach. I visited with my daughter, and it was her first experience feeling the sea water, making it a memorable moment. The beach also offers the perfect setting for kids to play in the water. Fortunately, our visit took place on a beautiful sunny day, toward the end of Spring, so the water wasn’t too chilly.
Image Credit: The Gateway to Rabbit Island | Official Site (rabbit-island.info)
Camping by the Ocean
While I haven’t personally tried this, it’s undoubtedly an exciting way to spend your time on the island. Families often camp for a day or even overnight, savoring the freedom of grilling and relishing food against the backdrop of the magnificent ocean view. To secure your camping experience, don’t forget to get in touch with Kyukamura Ohkunoshima Hotel for reservations.
Image Credit: The Gateway to Rabbit Island | Official Site (rabbit-island.info)
For more details about the island, you can check their official website by clicking on the link below:
The Gateway to Rabbit Island | Official Site (rabbit-island.info)
PLANNING AN EXTENDED STAY ON RABBIT ISLAND?
During my third visit to this enchanting place, I decided to extend my stay and experience the Kyukamura Ohkunoshima Hotel. This time, I was accompanied by my daughter, husband, mom, and sister, so why not savor a little extra time on this unique island?
Kyukamura Ohkunoshima Hotel happens to be the sole lodging option on the island. While its appearance may lean toward the vintage side from both the outside and inside, what truly sets it apart is the awe-inspiring view of the sea and the surrounding islands. This visual feast alone is enough to make your stay truly unforgettable.
Our visit was for a single night, and the package included both dinner and breakfast, all served in a delightful buffet style. I must say, the culinary offerings were simply delectable. Even if you’re a vegan or vegetarian, you’ll find an array of options to please your palate. The dining experience alone was worth the visit, and I’m already eager to return – just for the food! If you’re pressed for time, fret not. You can opt for a day trip to the island and still relish a delightful meal at their restaurant.
Kyukamura Ohkunoshima Hotel also boasts an indoor hot spring facility catering to both men and women. It’s a cozy space designed for hotel guests looking to unwind in a large bath. While it may not be overly spacious, it’s a serene spot to relax, and the best part is that it’s free for all hotel guests.
To add to the charm, the hotel features a charming café and a souvenir shop on the first floor – be sure not to miss them.
During our stay, we booked the Japanese Style Family Room, which cost us approximately 51,000 JPY (340 USD) for a one-night stay inclusive of a buffet dinner and breakfast.
If you’re eager to delve into more details about this hotel, simply click on the link below.
Kyukamura OHKUNOSHIMA (qkamura.or.jp)
MORE PHOTOS
Since most of our time with the rabbits was captured on video, the photos I can share with you primarily feature the stunning island sceneries.
Mai In Japan
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