Okunoshima
Also written: 大久野島 · 大久野岛
A healing island where you can interact with wild rabbits; the blue sea and sky surround a tranquil landscape perfect for relaxation.
An Illustrated Japan / Hiroshima / Famous Views
About this place
Okunoshima is a 4 km circumference island about 3 km offshore from Tadanoumi Port, Takehara City, Hiroshima, in Seto Inland Sea. Known worldwide as 'Rabbit Island' hosting over 900 wild European rabbits, it was once a secret Imperial Army poison gas factory, erased from maps in 1938. After the war it became Setouchi National Park, with Kyukamura resort hotel opened 1963 and hot spring Okunoshima Onsen. Rabbits are believed to have descended from eight released by a local elementary school in 1971, growing from about 300 in 2007 to 700 in 2013 to over 900 in 2018, boosting visitors from 152,000 in 2010 to 360,000 in 2017. Ferry from Tadanoumi 15 minutes adult 360 yen hourly, resort ship also. Cycling rental circles the island in 1 hour, Poison Gas Museum 100 yen educates about wartime remains like power plant ruins and storage. Feeding rabbits with pellets sold on island, no dogs/cats allowed, water from taps not drinkable, only hotel accommodation. Tide pools, beach, campsite also. The island also has tennis court, visitors center, and war remains trails with QR guides in English, making it family friendly with strict no feeding human food rule enforced by rangers. Night sky clear, boar occasionally seen. The area is well maintained with parking and toilets. Local cuisine and seasonal events enrich visit. Photography recommended early morning or sunset. Check tide tables and weather forecasts for best experience. Family friendly and accessible for most visitors with moderate walking. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers. The site offers superb views and cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination in Chugoku region for nature lovers.
