Visit Japan Web Okunoshima
Visit Japan Web invites you to explore Okunoshima. It is famous for its substantial rabbit population. Despite the island’s appeal to visitors for its adorable inhabitants, few may be aware of the island’s chilling secret.
The exact number of rabbits on the island remains unknown. But with no natural predators and restricted access for cats and dogs, their population continues to thrive.
There are conflicting accounts regarding the origin of the rabbits. Some people claim they are descendants of eight rabbits released by school children in 1971. Others suggest they were test subjects released after World War II. Nevertheless, the rabbits have become the island’s primary attraction and receive excellent care.
Visitors are encouraged to purchase food and feed these gentle creatures. They have become so accustomed to human interaction that they are nearly domesticated. However, one should be ready to flee when food runs out, as the rabbits tend to give chase.
The island features numerous stunning beaches and campgrounds for visitors to enjoy. However, the island is also home to a constant presence of adorable rabbits. They add a delightful touch to any activity on the island.
Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, the island has a dark history. Japan signing the 1925 Geneva Protocol prohibiting chemical warfare. But a secret chemical weapons factory was constructed on Okunoshima just four years later in 1929. Mustard gas and tear gas were produced at this factory during World War II. After the war, the Allied forces disposed of the stockpiled chemicals. It was only decades later that the government acknowledged any wrongdoing and provided financial and medical assistance to those in the area affected by the factory.
