Okunoshima Rabbit Island Cycling Tour with Local Guide

Exploring Okunoshima Rabbit Island by Bike: A Honest Review

If you’re looking for a mix of adorable wildlife, fascinating history, and scenic views in Japan, then the Okunoshima Rabbit Island Cycling Tour might just tick all your boxes. This tour promises a fun, active way to explore the small island known for its hundreds of free-roaming rabbits and a dark past woven into its landscape.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you get to pedal around the island with a knowledgeable local guide who shares stories that bring the history to life. Second, you’re guaranteed plenty of cuddle-worthy rabbits, which everyone seems to love. Third, the tour offers a good balance of sightseeing without feeling rushed or overly commercial. That said, it’s a short, 2-hour trip, so if you’re after a deep dive into Japan’s wartime history, you might want to supplement this with other experiences.

A possible consideration is that this is a group tour with a minimum of just two people, so it can feel quite intimate or, on busy days, a little crowded. Also, some of the historical sites—like the poison gas storage ruins and power plant—are view-only, so you’ll want to keep your curiosity alive for what’s not accessible. Still, if you enjoy active outings, love animals, and appreciate some historical context, this tour should suit you well.

This experience is perfect for travelers who crave a blend of nature, history, and playful encounters. It’s especially suited for those with moderate physical fitness—cycling for about an hour on mostly flat terrain—wanting an affordable day out, and who enjoy stories from local guides.

Good To Know

• Balanced Experience: Combines outdoor activity, historical sites, and wildlife encounters.
• Expert Guidance: Led by knowledgeable locals passionate about the island’s stories.
• Wildlife Close-Up: Ample opportunities to interact with hundreds of free-roaming rabbits.
• Affordable Price: At around $59, it offers good value for a unique day trip.
• Scenic Views: Stunning vistas of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands.
• Limited Access: Some historical sites are view-only for safety reasons.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

What’s Included and How It Works

For $59, you gain access to a well-organized bike rental, all fees and taxes, and travel insurance—that’s a lot of value packed into a short trip. The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it manageable even for those on tight schedules, and it’s held in a small group of up to 5 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

The Meeting Point and Logistics

You’ll meet at KYUKAMURA OHKUNOSHIMA in Tadanoumi, close to public transportation options, making it easy to access from Hiroshima or nearby areas. The tour ends right back at the same location, simplifying logistics. Keep in mind the ferry fee (360 yen from Tadanoumi to the island) isn’t included, so budget a bit extra for that.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Start at Okunoshima Lighthouse:
While visitors can’t enter the lighthouse itself, you’ll get to admire its structure and take in the surrounding views. It’s a quick stop (about 10 minutes), but perfect for some scenic photos.

Cycle around the island (1 hour):
This is the core of the experience, riding roughly 4 km on flat terrain. The guide will help you appreciate the island’s natural beauty and tell stories about its past. Reviewers mention the guide’s passion—one called Junko “the kindest person ever,” eager to share both the dark history and lighter moments.

Visit Okuno Shrine:
This shrine is the only one on the island and also home to rabbits—further proof that the animals are integrated into local life. Expect a brief stop (about 10 minutes), with a chance to see rabbits hopping freely among the shrine grounds.

View Nagaura Poison Gas Storage Ruins & Power Plant Ruins:
These haunting remnants from WWII reveal the island’s hidden, darker side. They’re off-limits for entry, but the views from the outside are enough to spark curiosity. Reviewers appreciate how the guide contextualizes these sites, helping visitors understand their significance without crossing safety boundaries.

Northern Cannon Battery Remnants:
This is a closer look at some of the war-era defense structures. It’s a 15-minute stop where you can walk around the ruins and learn about the island’s strategic importance.

The Unique Charm of the Rabbits

The highlight for many visitors is the abundance of wild rabbits. Reviewers mention how “bunnies in the wild” make for a charming, playful experience, with plenty of opportunities for photos and petting. One reviewer even called it “the highlight of their trip to Japan.” These rabbits aren’t shy—they’re accustomed to humans, making interactions fun and memorable.

The Historical Depth

The tour’s historical elements, like the poison gas ruins and the power plant, add a fascinating layer. The guide’s storytelling helps to understand this island’s complex past—once a secret military site, now a peaceful sanctuary of rabbits. As one reviewer said, “There is more to the island than just bunnies. The history shows a side unknown to the public,” emphasizing that this tour offers more than cute animals.

The Value for Money

Compared to other tours in Japan, this one offers good value—especially considering the inclusion of bike rental, insurance, and a knowledgeable guide. The cost-per-hour is reasonable, and the experience’s authenticity is clear. While it’s not a comprehensive WW2 historical tour, it provides enough context to get a sense of the island’s past without overwhelming.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Reviewers highlight the personal touch of guides like Junko, who are passionate about sharing stories and making the visit memorable. They also appreciated the easy pace and how the short duration kept the experience relaxed. The scenery, combined with engaging commentary, makes it suitable for a variety of travelers—whether families, couples, or solo explorers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cycling tour is ideal for animal lovers, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts. It’s perfect if you want a light active day with meaningful stories and adorable encounters. However, those with limited mobility or seeking an in-depth WWII experience may want to look elsewhere or combine it with other activities.

The Sum Up

The Okunoshima Rabbit Island Cycling Tour offers a unique blend of history, nature, and playful fun. It’s a well-priced outing that balances short physical activity with engaging storytelling and adorable wildlife. The small group size and passionate guides make it feel authentic and personal—something you’ll remember long after the bicycles are put away.

It’s particularly suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed, family-friendly adventure that’s both educational and entertaining. If you appreciate beautiful views, meaningful stories, and cuddly rabbits, then this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, the tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who shares stories about the island’s history and points out interesting sights.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, including stops for sightseeing and photo opportunities.

Do I need to have cycling experience?
While some basic comfort riding a bike is recommended, the terrain is mostly flat, making it accessible for most with moderate fitness.

What is included in the price?
Included are bike use, all fees and taxes, and travel insurance. It does not cover food, drinks, or ferry costs.

Are the historical sites open to the public?
Some sites like the poison gas storage and power plant ruins are view-only for safety reasons, but your guide will provide plenty of context.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, water, and a camera. Remember to have yen for the ferry if needed.

In summary, this cycling tour offers a charming, insightful way to explore Okunoshima—perfect for those craving a relaxed, meaningful adventure with adorable animal encounters and a glimpse into a complex past.