Okunoshima (Rabbit Island)
Chugoku Region
Okunoshima is a small island located in Japan's Inland Sea, part of Hiroshima Prefecture near the city of Takehara. It is famously known as Rabbit Island due to the large population of free-ranging domestic rabbits that approach visitors. Historically, the island played a significant role during the Second Sino-Japanese War and World War II as a secret chemical weapons production site, manufacturing mustard gas and tear gas. The island was chosen for its isolation and security, with the chemical munitions plant operating under strict secrecy. After the war, the gas was disposed of by Allied forces, and the island was later developed as a park where rabbits were introduced. Today, visitors can explore walking trails, campsites, and the Poison Gas Museum, which educates about the island's dark past and advocates for peace. The ruins of the old forts and chemical factory remain but are off-limits due to safety concerns. The island is accessible by ferry and is part of the Inland Sea National Park, featuring natural beauty alongside its historical significance.
ヒント: Visitors are advised to take the ferry from Tadanoumi or Omishima for access. The best time to visit is during mild weather seasons when rabbits are most active. Hunting or feeding the rabbits harmful food is prohibited, and pets like dogs and cats are not allowed on the island. Tickets for the ferry should be purchased in advance during peak tourist seasons. The Poison Gas Museum provides English translations and is a recommended stop for understanding the island's history. Bringing water and snacks is advisable as amenities are limited.
興味深い事実
- •Okunoshima was a secret poison gas production site during WWII, producing over six kilotons of mustard and tear gas.
- •The island was removed from some maps during the war to maintain secrecy about the chemical weapons plant.
- •The current rabbit population descends from domestic rabbits released after WWII when the island became a park.
- •The Poison Gas Museum opened in 1988 and includes exhibits donated by families of affected workers.
- •The island is connected to the mainland by the Chushi Powerline Crossing, Japan's tallest powerline.
歴史
Originally a cultivated area with fishing families, Okunoshima was fortified during the Russo-Japanese War with ten forts.
In 1925, the Imperial Japanese Army established a secret chemical weapons plant on the island, producing large quantities of poison gas until the end of World War II.
The island was deliberately kept off maps to maintain secrecy.
After the war, the chemical weapons were destroyed by Allied forces, and the island was repurposed as a park.
The Poison Gas Museum opened in 1988 to educate the public about the island's role in chemical warfare and promote peace awareness.
場所ガイド
Poison Gas Museum1988
A small museum opened in 1988 that details the construction and operation of the chemical weapons plant, the harsh working conditions, and the effects of poison gas on humans. It includes artifacts donated by workers' families and displays on global victims of chemical weapons.
Walking Trails and Campsites
The island features walking trails allowing visitors to explore its natural beauty and historical ruins safely. Campsites are available for those wishing to stay overnight and experience the island's environment.