美しい海
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Okunoshima Rabbit Island

4.6
·1k reviews·Takehara, Japan

Okunoshima, Japan's 'Rabbit Island,' is a charming escape where hundreds of friendly wild rabbits roam freely amidst scenic coastal views and a poigna...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather, active rabbits

CrowdMedium
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美しい海

Okunoshima Rabbit Island

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather, active rabbits

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Okunoshima, Japan's 'Rabbit Island,' is a charming escape where hundreds of friendly wild rabbits roam freely amidst scenic coastal views and a poignant history.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A magical island worth a visit if you love rabbits and cool islands!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring LOTS of Rabbit Food

Cabbage & lettuce are favorites! Pellet treats sell out fast. Rabbits depend on you! :rabbit2:

Cash is King Here

Ferry tickets & island purchases are cash-only. ATMs are scarce. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Hopping Residents

The Hopping Residents

Throughout the island

Hundreds of friendly wild rabbits roam freely, eager for a snack. They are the main attraction!

Island Views & Nature Trails

Island Views & Nature Trails

Various viewpoints

Hike scenic trails offering beautiful ocean vistas and explore the island's natural beauty.

Poison Gas Museum

Poison Gas Museum

Near the ferry terminal

Learn about the island's dark history as a chemical weapons production site.

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Planning Your Visit

Rabbit Food is Key!

Bring plenty of rabbit food like cabbage or lettuce! While some pellet treats are sold off-island, they run out fast. Rabbits depend on visitors for sustenance, so a good supply ensures a better experience for you and them. :rabbit2:

Cash & Comfortable Shoes

Okunoshima is a cash-only island for most purchases, including ferry tickets and any limited snacks. Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be exploring the island, and some paths can be steep. :moneybag: :athletic_shoe:

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, active rabbits
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Best for beach, but hot
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Preciosa la isla de los conejitos 🤩🐰🇯🇵 #japon #viaje #okunoshima #storytime #anecdotas #comedia #Vlog
@esen_alva
519.9K likes • 2.6M views

Bring LOTS of Rabbit Food

Cabbage & lettuce are favorites! Pellet treats sell out fast. Rabbits depend on you! :rabbit2: Reddit

Cash is King Here

Ferry tickets & island purchases are cash-only. ATMs are scarce. :moneybag: Reddit

#fyp #jepang #hiroshima #rabbitisland #okunoshima #kelinci #pulaukelinci #jepang #japan
@dieranathania
400.5K likes • 4.2M views
KOK ISA ADA YG SUKA MAKAN DAGING KELINCI?!😭😭😭 📍Okunoshima Island #RabbitIsland #Okunoshima #OkunoshimaIsland #Hiroshima #Japan
@piyanutella
181K likes • 2.6M views

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be walking and possibly hiking. Good grip is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:

Don't Pet the Wildies

Rabbits are wild. Admire from afar, avoid petting to respect their nature. :noentrysign: Reddit

reddit.com

Rabbit island/Ōkunoshima

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring LOTS of Rabbit Food

Cabbage & lettuce are favorites! Pellet treats sell out fast. Rabbits depend on you! :rabbit2: Reddit

Cash is King Here

Ferry tickets & island purchases are cash-only. ATMs are scarce. :moneybag: Reddit

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be walking and possibly hiking. Good grip is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:

Don't Pet the Wildies

Rabbits are wild. Admire from afar, avoid petting to respect their nature. :noentrysign: Reddit

Check the Last Ferry

Don't miss the last boat back! Plan your day to avoid getting stranded. :clock1: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the magical experience of interacting with hundreds of friendly rabbits on Okunoshima. The island's scenic beauty and unique history also add to its appeal. However, be prepared for limited facilities, the need for cash, and the importance of bringing your own food for both yourself and the rabbits.

"I had a great time hiking about the island about a month ago in August 9th. The boats come at hour intervals, so you get some time to explore. Some of the paths were closed due to flooding, but I did love bringing cabbage and feeding it to the rabbits!"

Makayla Roberson (Baker)

"i love rabbits and have wanted to visit here since i moved to Japan. i only went for a day trip since i couldn't reserve a room in the hotel on the island, but i would have loved to stay overnight just to spend more time with the rabbits.

i went on a cloudy colder day so i wasn't sure if i would see any bunnies, but there were lots out and lots of people feeding them! they are very friendly and a lot of them seemed relaxed, which i was happy to see. you shouldn't pet them though because they are wild animals! i saw a lot of people petting them, and while the rabbits seem very sociable they also live outdoors. some of them are also in a little rough shape, and i saw some that had dirt crusted on their noses.

there are piles of hay scattered around the island and water bowls for them to drink from, but they obviously appreciate the extra veggie treats that tourists bring. i brought some lettuce but if you go i would advise you to bring a lot, it was gone within 5 minutes!! there are also pellet treats available at the gift shop off of the island, before you get on the ferry.

i highly recommend going if you're a rabbit lover, but even if you aren't i would go just to feed the bunnies since they depend on volunteers and tourists for food. the island is also pretty and has gorgeous views of the ocean, i would highly suggest going in the summer to get the best experience. the gift shop also has lots of adorable rabbit themed merchandise."

Braden

"A magical island worth a visit. If you love rabbits and cool islands this is the place for you. Bring your swim trunks and check out the beach too.

Get a bag of rabbit food from スーパーマミー which is not too far from the ferry."

T Dao

What People Like

Abundant friendly rabbits
Scenic island views
Unique historical context

What People Dislike

Limited facilities
Cash-only transactions
Need to bring own food

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Hiroshima, take the Shinkansen to Fukuyama, then transfer to a local train to Mihara. From Mihara Station, it's a short walk to the ferry terminal for the 40-minute ferry ride to Okunoshima. The JR Pass covers the Shinkansen and local trains. TikTokReddit

Yes, the JR Pass covers the Shinkansen and local train portions of your journey to Mihara. However, it does not cover the ferry to Okunoshima. Reddit

From Osaka, take the Shinkansen to Fukuyama, then transfer to a local train to Mihara. From Mihara, catch the ferry to Okunoshima. This can be done as a long day trip. TikTok

The journey from Hiroshima can take around 2-3 hours one way, depending on train and ferry connections. From Osaka, it's a longer day trip, potentially 4-5 hours each way. Reddit

You cannot drive directly onto Okunoshima. You'll need to park your car in Mihara and take the ferry. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ferry tickets are typically around ¥360 one-way for adults. There isn't an entrance fee for the island itself, but you'll need to factor in train fares and the cost of rabbit food. TikTok

Ferry tickets can be purchased from a machine at the ferry terminal in Mihara. It's a quick process. TikTok

No, there are no entrance fees to set foot on Okunoshima itself. The costs are primarily for transportation (trains and ferry) and any food you purchase. Reddit

You cannot buy rabbit food directly on the island. It's highly recommended to purchase food like cabbage or lettuce from supermarkets or convenience stores before you arrive in Mihara or off-island. Reddit

Ferry schedules vary, but they generally run at hourly intervals. It's crucial to check the latest schedule before your visit and be aware of the last ferry departure to avoid being stranded. Reddit

🎫 🐇 Rabbit Encounters

Yes, the rabbits are generally very friendly and accustomed to human interaction, especially when food is involved. They will often approach visitors. Reddit

While the rabbits are sociable, it's advised not to pet them as they are wild animals. Some may appear rough or have dirt on their noses, indicating they live outdoors. Reddit

The rabbits love leafy greens like cabbage and lettuce. You can also buy pellet treats from shops near the ferry terminal before boarding, but these can sell out. Reddit

Okunoshima is home to hundreds of rabbits, creating a truly unique and immersive experience for visitors. TikTok

Yes, there are water bowls scattered around the island for the rabbits to drink from. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Views

The best photo opportunities are with the rabbits themselves, especially when they are eating. The island also offers scenic ocean views from various points, particularly from higher elevations. TikTok

Absolutely! The abundance of photogenic rabbits and the picturesque coastal scenery make it a great spot for photographers. TikTok

Yes, there are several viewpoints, including an observatory, offering gorgeous views of the Seto Inland Sea. Be prepared for a climb to some of these spots. Reddit

Mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light for photography. However, the rabbits are active throughout the day, so any time can yield great shots. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone on the island to ensure compliance. TikTok

🎫 🏨 Accommodation & Facilities

Yes, there is a hotel on the island, the Kyukamura Okunoshima. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as rooms can fill up quickly. Reddit

The island has a hotel, a small museum about its history, restrooms, and vending machines. However, options for purchasing food and drinks are very limited. Reddit

The main dining option is the restaurant at the Kyukamura Okunoshima hotel. Outside of that, food options are extremely scarce, reinforcing the need to bring your own. Reddit

Wi-Fi availability can be spotty. It's best to assume limited or no reliable Wi-Fi and download any necessary information offline. Reddit

Yes, there are public restrooms available, typically located near the ferry terminal and other key areas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Okunoshima is a fantastic destination for families, offering a unique and memorable experience with its friendly rabbits. Children will be delighted by the sheer number of bunnies and the opportunity to feed them. It's a great way to teach kids about wildlife and responsible interaction. TikTok

Tips for families: Bring plenty of rabbit-safe snacks like chopped carrots or lettuce. Ensure children understand not to chase or scare the rabbits. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring, and consider bringing a stroller for younger children as some paths are paved and accessible. Don't forget cash for ferry tickets and any small souvenirs. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Okunoshima can be an affordable day trip, especially if you utilize a JR Pass for train travel. The main costs will be the ferry tickets and any food you bring for yourself and the rabbits. Purchasing food from local supermarkets before heading to Mihara will be significantly cheaper than relying on limited island options. Reddit

Budget tips: Pack your own lunch and snacks. Focus on the free activities: interacting with the rabbits and exploring the island's natural beauty. The museum has a small entrance fee, but it's optional. Be mindful of the last ferry to avoid unexpected accommodation costs. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Okunoshima is a dream for photographers and content creators, offering endless opportunities for unique shots. The star attraction is, of course, the rabbits – their playful antics and eagerness for food make for dynamic and engaging photos and videos. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the bunnies, the island provides beautiful coastal scenery and historical remnants that add depth to your visual storytelling. The contrast between the island's wartime past and its current, whimsical rabbit-filled present is a compelling narrative. Remember to capture the journey, from the train ride to the ferry crossing, for a complete travelogue. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating to Okunoshima

Getting to Okunoshima, often called Rabbit Island, involves a multi-step journey, but it's manageable with a bit of planning. Most visitors travel from major cities like Hiroshima or Osaka. The primary route involves taking the Shinkansen (bullet train) to either Fukuyama or Mihara station. From there, you'll transfer to a local train heading to Mihara. The JR Pass is a great asset for covering these train segments. TikTokReddit

Once you arrive at Mihara Station, it's a short, approximately 10-minute walk to the Mihara Port ferry terminal. Here, you'll purchase your ferry tickets, usually from a ticket machine. The ferry ride itself takes about 40 minutes and offers scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea. It's crucial to check the ferry schedule in advance, as services are not constant, and missing the last ferry can leave you stranded. TikTokReddit

Key takeaway: Plan your train connections carefully and always confirm the last ferry departure time. Having cash for ferry tickets is essential, as card payments are not typically accepted at the terminal. Reddit

The Rabbit Experience

Okunoshima's fame stems from its large population of friendly wild rabbits. These rabbits are descendants of those brought to the island in the 1970s and now roam freely, eagerly interacting with visitors. They are quite accustomed to people and will often approach you, especially if you have food. TikTokReddit

Feeding the rabbits is a highlight for many. While some pellet treats are available for purchase near the ferry terminal, they often sell out quickly. Visitors are strongly encouraged to bring their own food, such as cabbage or lettuce, which the rabbits particularly enjoy. It's important to remember that these are wild animals; while they are sociable, it's best to admire them from a distance and avoid petting them to respect their natural behavior and well-being. Reddit

Important note: The rabbits rely heavily on visitors and volunteers for sustenance. Bringing food is not just for your enjoyment but also contributes to their welfare. Be mindful of the rabbits' health; some may appear a bit rough around the edges, which is normal for outdoor wildlife. Reddit

Okunoshima's History and Exploration

Beyond its rabbit inhabitants, Okunoshima holds a significant and somber history. During World War II, the island was a secret site for the production of poison gas. A small museum near the ferry terminal details this past, offering a stark contrast to the island's current peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

Exploring the island involves more than just rabbit encounters. You can hike various trails that lead to scenic viewpoints overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. Some paths can be steep, so comfortable footwear is a must. For those seeking a more accessible experience, parts of the island are flat and paved, making them suitable for wheelchairs. Reddit

Considerations: While the island offers natural beauty and a unique historical context, be prepared for limited facilities. Bring your own food and water, and ensure you have enough cash for any purchases. The island is best enjoyed as a day trip, with the last ferry back being a critical detail to remember. Reddit

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