Okunoshima: A Day Trip to Hiroshima’s Rabbit Island

Wild rabbit on Okunoshima, the Rabbit Island near Hiroshima, Japan

A short distance from Hiroshima lies Okunoshima, better known to travelers as Rabbit Island. Hundreds of friendly wild rabbits hop freely across this small island in the Seto Inland Sea, delighting visitors of all ages. The island also carries a more somber history, making it a uniquely memorable day trip that blends cute encounters with quiet reflection.

The Famous Rabbits

The island’s main draw is its population of wild rabbits, which are accustomed to people and will happily approach anyone who sits down quietly. They are gentle and curious, and watching them gather is a joy for children and adults alike. Visitors are asked to feed them only appropriate rabbit-safe food, to keep them off the roads, and never to pick them up, so the colony stays healthy.

Caring for the Colony

Because the rabbits depend partly on visitors, responsible behavior matters. Bring fresh vegetables rather than processed snacks, offer water on hot days, and let the animals come to you. These small kindnesses keep the island’s beloved residents thriving and ensure future travelers can enjoy the same experience. The relaxed pace makes Okunoshima a wonderful escape from the city.

A Layered History

Okunoshima was once a secret site for poison gas production, and that history was deliberately hidden from maps for years. Today the Poison Gas Museum on the island tells this story honestly as a lesson against the horrors of chemical warfare. Walking among the old ruins and the cheerful rabbits creates a striking, thought-provoking contrast.

Getting There

From Hiroshima, take a train to Tadanoumi Station, then a short ferry to the island. The trip takes a couple of hours each way, so an early start is wise. There is a single hotel, a campsite, and a few facilities, but most visitors come for the day. Comfortable shoes and a small supply of rabbit food make the visit even more rewarding.

Okunoshima offers one of the most heartwarming and unusual experiences in the Hiroshima area. Pair it with the city’s historic sites for a trip that moves from playful to profound and back again.