About
In the gentle embrace of the Seto Inland Sea, a small island emerges, its shores kissed by the sun's golden rays. Here, the air is filled with the soft rustling of leaves and the rhythmic lapping of waves against the rocky coastline. As you step onto its soil, a curious sight unfolds: countless rabbits, their fur a mosaic of earthy tones, hop freely, their eyes gleaming with innocent curiosity. They approach without hesitation, their twitching noses seeking the offerings of visitors. This is Ōkunoshima, a place where nature's serenity and history's echoes intertwine.
The island's present tranquility belies a tumultuous past. In the early 20th century, Ōkunoshima was shrouded in secrecy. Between 1929 and 1945, it became the clandestine heart of Japan's chemical warfare program. Hidden from maps and public knowledge, the island housed facilities that produced lethal gases like mustard gas and lewisite. The workers, often unaware of the true nature of their labor, toiled under hazardous conditions, many suffering severe health consequences. The remnants of this era still stand: weathered concrete structures, their walls scarred and blackened, serve as silent witnesses to the island's somber history. (withnews.jp)
Yet, nature has a way of reclaiming and healing. After the war, the island underwent a transformation. In the 1960s, it was designated as a national park, and efforts were made to repurpose it into a place of peace and recreation. It was during this period that rabbits were introduced to the island. Some accounts suggest that schoolchildren released a few domesticated rabbits, while others believe they were remnants of the island's past, having been used in chemical tests. Regardless of their origins, these rabbits thrived, their numbers multiplying over the decades. Today, they are the island's most endearing inhabitants, drawing visitors from around the world who come to experience the unique harmony of history and nature. (mag.petra.jp)
As you wander the island's trails, the juxtaposition is striking. Verdant forests and blooming flowers envelop the remnants of old military installations. The rabbits, symbols of fertility and rebirth, frolic amidst these ruins, their playful antics a testament to life's resilience. The island's highest point offers a panoramic view of the surrounding sea, dotted with other islands, each with its own story. The gentle sea breeze carries with it the scent of salt and the distant calls of seabirds, creating a symphony of nature's sounds.
Visitors are encouraged to interact with the rabbits, but with care and respect. Feeding them is a cherished activity, yet it's essential to offer appropriate food and avoid overfeeding. The island's ecosystem is delicate, and maintaining its balance ensures that both the rabbits and the natural environment continue to flourish. (mag.petra.jp)
Ōkunoshima stands as a poignant reminder of humanity's capacity for both destruction and healing. Its landscapes tell tales of a past filled with secrecy and sorrow, yet its present is a celebration of life and renewal. The island invites all who visit to reflect on history's lessons, to cherish the beauty of the natural world, and to find joy in the simple, unassuming presence of its rabbit residents.