Rabbit Island

Tucked away in the Seto Inland Sea, Ōkunoshima, also known as Rabbit Island, is one of the most adorable and magical places in all of Japan. This tiny island in Hiroshima Prefecture is home to hundreds of wild but incredibly friendly bunnies that hop freely across the land, greeting visitors with their twitching noses and floppy ears. If you love animals, nature, and charming hidden gems, Ōkunoshima is an absolute must-visit destination that will steal your heart the moment you step onto its shores.

The moment you arrive by ferry, you’ll notice something amazing. As soon as you set foot on the island, a fluffy welcoming committee is already waiting for you. Rabbits of all colors and sizes bound up to visitors, wiggling their noses and hoping for a treat. They aren’t shy at all and will happily hop right up to you, standing on their hind legs with their tiny paws in the air, as if asking, “Do you have snacks for me?” Watching them gather around visitors, munching on cabbage, carrots, and bunny-safe food, is nothing short of pure joy. Their floppy ears, big round eyes, and gentle nature make every interaction feel like something out of a fairy tale.

Ōkunoshima isn’t just a paradise for bunny lovers—it’s also a beautiful, peaceful getaway. The island is small enough to explore on foot, making for a perfect day trip filled with scenic walks, ocean breezes, and breathtaking views. The walking trails wind through lush greenery, open fields, and coastal paths, offering plenty of chances to take picturesque snapshots of both the rabbits and the surrounding scenery. Along the way, you’ll see adorable bunny families lounging in the sun, little ones chasing each other through the grass, and the fluffiest of friends flopped over in the shade, taking a well-earned nap. It’s impossible not to smile as you watch their cute antics unfold.

Despite its current status as an island of happiness, Ōkunoshima has a somber past that adds an element of history to your visit. During World War II, the island was used as a top-secret poison gas production site for the Japanese military. Today, the Ōkunoshima Poison Gas Museum stands as a reminder of this history, educating visitors about the island’s past and its transformation into the peaceful rabbit haven it is today. The contrast between its dark history and its cheerful present-day charm makes the island even more special, proving that places, like people, can change and heal over time.

Beyond playing with rabbits and exploring the island’s past, there are plenty of relaxing activities to enjoy. The island’s beaches are a lovely place to sit back and enjoy the fresh sea air while watching the waves roll in. There’s even a small hot spring where you can soak and unwind before hopping back on the ferry. Whether you’re a photographer looking for the perfect shot, a nature lover searching for a peaceful retreat, or an animal enthusiast hoping to make new furry friends, Ōkunoshima has something heartwarming to offer.

Getting to Rabbit Island is an adventure in itself, adding to the excitement of the trip. The journey starts with a train ride to Tadanoumi Station, followed by a short walk to Tadanoumi Port, where the ferry to Ōkunoshima departs. The ferry ride is quick and scenic, lasting about 15 minutes, and as you approach the island, you can already start spotting rabbits hopping near the docks. The anticipation of stepping onto an island ruled by adorable bunnies is enough to make anyone’s heart race with excitement.

For those planning a visit, bringing bunny-friendly snacks is highly recommended. While it’s not allowed to feed them human food, fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and rabbit pellets make for excellent treats that will instantly turn you into their new best friend. Watching a fluffy little bunny nibble away at a piece of cabbage, its tiny nose twitching happily, is one of the cutest experiences imaginable. The rabbits are always eager to meet new people, and feeding them makes for an unforgettable connection with these adorable island residents.

Ōkunoshima is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a dreamlike place that feels like stepping into a storybook. It’s a world where gentle creatures roam freely, where nature flourishes, and where the simple act of watching bunnies hop around can bring a sense of pure happiness. Every visitor leaves with a heart full of warmth, a camera full of precious photos, and a newfound love for these tiny, furry island dwellers.

For anyone who has ever wanted to be surrounded by bunnies, breathe in fresh sea air, and experience a destination unlike anywhere else in the world, Ōkunoshima is calling. The rabbits are waiting, their ears perked up, their paws ready to patter across the island to greet you with the cutest welcome possible. It’s time to pack your bags, grab some bunny treats, and hop on over to Rabbit Island for the most adorable adventure of your life.