If you're exploring Japan, make sure to visit Rabbit Island, highly appreciated by animal lovers.
Summary:
A tiny spot on a map... Yes, it's indeed on the very small island of Okunoshima, 4km in circumference, in Japan that lies the paradise for wild rabbits. Located only 12 minutes by boat from the Japanese coast, this site turns out to be an attraction of love and tenderness unique in its kind. On Rabbit Island, there are protective laws, no predators, and kind tourists. Dogs and cats are even strictly prohibited, as are hunters.
Our long-eared friends of Okunoshima are wild but still enjoy the company of tourists who come especially to see them. Very greedy, they approach and even chase after visitors to get their much-coveted treats. The hotels nearby even sell passing visitors carrots and cabbages to offer as rewards to the rodents.
Our favorite long ears are said to have been brought to the island during the Second World War.
Sad fate indeed, Okunoshima with its incredible natural beauty was actually a base for the development of deadly gases by the Imperial Army during World War II. The rabbits were used as test subjects for these toxic gases.
When the war ended... It is said that workers released the rabbits into the wild. This was a more promising outcome for the following generations of rabbits.
Today, Rabbit Island attracts thousands of enthusiasts and fans to the delight of our long-eared friends!
Elsa Blacha.
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