5 FAKTA OKUNOSHIMA, PULAU KELINCI DI JEPANG

Summary

In this video, Hoka Rabbit takes viewers on a journey to Okunoshima, or Rabbit Island, located in southern Hiroshima, Japan. The island is famous for its large population of wild rabbits that roam freely and interact with visitors. Although the island has a dark history linked to mustard gas testing during World War II, today it’s a peaceful haven for rabbits. Tourists can visit to enjoy the natural beauty, interact with the rabbits, and learn about the island’s fascinating past. However, concerns about the sustainability of the rabbit population due to limited food sources and breeding patterns also arise.

Takeaways

• 🐇 Okunoshima, also known as Rabbit Island or Usagi Jima, is a small island in southern Hiroshima, Japan, famous for its large population of wild rabbits.
• 🏝 Only a few people live on the island, mainly staff working at the island's hotel and tourist facilities.
• 🛳 The island is located about 15 minutes from Tadanom Port in Takehara City and is part of a national park with facilities like hotels, hot springs, a campsite, and a visitor center.
• 🐰 Rabbits roam freely and safely because dogs and cats are banned, and harming rabbits is illegal.
• ❓ The origin of the rabbits is unclear, with theories including released pets by children or rabbits introduced for laboratory experiments.
• 📈 Rabbits breed rapidly, and with no predators, their population has grown to thousands over the years.
• 🎯 The main attraction for visitors is interacting with the rabbits, while other activities like cycling, tennis, fishing, and swimming are available.
• ☠️ During WWII, the island was used for testing mustard gas, earning the nickname 'Island of Poison Gas', and was removed from official maps to maintain secrecy.
• 🌱 The rabbit population faces challenges due to limited vegetation, making them dependent on food brought by tourists, which can be inconsistent.
• 🍴 Visitors are encouraged to bring food for the rabbits, such as carrots and lettuce, to help sustain their population.

Q & A

What is Okunoshima, also known as Rabbit Island?

Okunoshima, also called Rabbit Island, is a small island in Hiroshima, Japan, famous for its large population of wild rabbits that roam freely, attracting many tourists each year.

Why is Okunoshima called Rabbit Island?

The island is called Rabbit Island or 'Usaga Jima' in Japanese because it is home to a large number of wild rabbits that live and breed there.

Who lives on Okunoshima Island?

The only permanent residents of Okunoshima are the staff working at the island's hotel. There are no other human residents on the island.

What activities can visitors enjoy on Okunoshima aside from interacting with rabbits?

Visitors to Okunoshima can enjoy activities like cycling, tennis, fishing, swimming in sea baths, and relaxing in outdoor pools during the summer.

How did the rabbits come to live on Okunoshima?

The origin of the rabbits on Okunoshima is unclear, but some believe that they were initially brought to the island by schoolchildren in 1971, while others think they were part of a laboratory experiment related to chemical weapon testing during World War II.

What role did Okunoshima play during World War II?

During World War II, Okunoshima was used as a site for the Japanese government’s toxic gas research, including the development of mustard gas, earning it the nickname 'Island of Poison Gas.'

Is it safe to visit Okunoshima today?

Yes, it is safe to visit Okunoshima today. However, there are still concerns about the contamination of the soil and water due to leftover toxic chemicals from World War II, though the rabbits are not directly affected by these remnants.

What is the legal status regarding the rabbits on Okunoshima?

It is illegal to harm or injure the rabbits on Okunoshima. In addition, pets such as dogs and cats are not allowed on the island to ensure the safety of the rabbits.

What challenges do the rabbits face on Okunoshima?

The rabbits on Okunoshima face the challenge of insufficient vegetation to support their population. They rely heavily on food provided by tourists, and on days when fewer visitors come, they may struggle to find enough food.

What can tourists do to help the rabbits on Okunoshima?

Tourists can help the rabbits by bringing food such as carrots and lettuce. It is also important for visitors to respect the rules of the island and not disturb or harm the rabbits.