From Hiroshima: Rabbit Island and Takehara Town Tour

From Hiroshima: Rabbit Island and Takehara Town Tour offers a delightful mix of nature, history, and quirky local charm. For $185 per person, you’ll spend about 9.5 hours exploring the old streets of Takehara, known for its preserved Edo-period architecture, and visiting Okunoshima, or Rabbit Island, home to hundreds of friendly rabbits and intriguing ruins. Your journey is guided by an English-speaking expert who makes sure you get the most out of this authentic day trip.

What we love about this tour are two key aspects. First, the small group size — limited to 15 participants — means you get a more personal, less rushed experience, perfect for asking questions and soaking in details. Second, the diverse activities, from wandering historic streets and learning about sake production to roaming freely among rabbits and enjoying the island’s scenery, give this trip a real sense of variety.

One thing to keep in mind is the tour’s focus on walking and outdoor exploration. It’s not ideal if you have mobility issues or are looking for a very relaxed, seated experience. Also, since it’s a full-day adventure, be prepared for a packed schedule. But if you’re curious about Japan’s hidden towns, love animals, or enjoy a bit of history mixed with nature, this tour is a solid choice.

This is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded, authentic taste of Hiroshima’s surroundings. Perfect for those interested in history, local culture, and cute animals, and who don’t mind a bit of walking or outdoor exposure.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Explore Takehara’s Edo-era streets and learn about its past as a merchant town.
• Unique Ruins: Discover the darker history of Rabbit Island through a guided tour of its ruins.
• Versatile Activities: Enjoy free time on the island to feed rabbits, rent bikes, soak in hot springs, or hike.
• Expert Guides: Benefit from knowledgeable guides who provide insights into local history, culture, and traditions.
• Small Group: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring more personalized attention.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, ferry tickets, entry fees, and rabbit food — making it a well-rounded package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour is a full immersion into Hiroshima’s nearby treasures — combining history, wildlife, and local flavor into one memorable day. It begins with a meet-up at Hiroshima Station, where your guide will be waiting with a friendly smile and a tour sign. From there, you’ll travel by public transport to the Takehara Townscape Conservation Area.

Takehara feels a bit like stepping into a living museum. Its streets are lined with preserved Edo-period buildings, and a stroll here is a great way to see how merchant life once thrived in Japan. A highlight is visiting the Saihoji Temple, a Zhen Buddhist site dating from the mid-Edo period, offering a glimpse into traditional religious architecture and peaceful gardens.

Next, you’ll explore the former Matsusaka family residence, a beautifully preserved house that shows what life was like for wealthy merchants. Inside, you’ll see artifacts and learn about daily life during the Edo era — a window into Japan’s commercial past. Nearby, the Okakae Jiz Statue offers a touch of local legend, believed to hold mystical powers that grant wishes if you make one while holding the statue.

After soaking in Takehara’s charms, it’s time to head to Tadanoumi Port to catch the ferry to Okunoshima — famously known as Rabbit Island. Arriving on the island, you’ll immediately notice the hundreds of rabbits wandering freely, eager for the food provided. The guided part of the tour explores the ruins of the island’s darker past, including military facilities from WWII, adding a poignant layer to your visit.

Following the guided tour, you’ll have ample free time to explore on your own. Many visitors enjoy feeding the rabbits — a highlight that makes this tour stand out. But the island offers more: you can soak in natural hot springs at the Kyukamura Kunoshima hotel, rent a bike to circle the island, hike to the observation deck for panoramic views, visit the lighthouse, or grab a bite at the on-site restaurant.

The tour concludes with a ferry ride back to Hiroshima and a short train ride to the station. Your guide will say goodbye outside the Shinkansen gates, leaving you with fond memories of a day well spent.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This experience is designed to give you a balanced mix of history, nature, and local culture. The guided walking tours in Takehara deepen your understanding of traditional Japan and its architectural beauty, while the free time on Rabbit Island allows for informal, joyful interactions with wildlife, making it particularly appealing for animal lovers. The inclusion of transportation, ferry tickets, and entry fees makes it a practical, all-in-one package that offers excellent value.

The reviews highlight how much travelers appreciate knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see a different side of Japan beyond the capital cities. One reviewer called it “one of the best excursions we’ve ever done,” praising the guide’s professionalism and the variety of activities. Others loved that it was “uncomplicated,” with a guide who shared a lot of information and made the day feel smooth and enjoyable.

While most enjoy the leisurely pace, be aware that the tour involves a good amount of walking and outdoor time, sometimes over uneven terrain. If you’re looking for a very relaxed experience or have physical limitations, consider this before booking. Also, note that the tour does not include lunch, so packing a snack or planning to buy on the island is advisable.

Deep Dive: Itinerary Breakdown

Morning: Hiroshima to Takehara

Starting at Hiroshima Station, the journey to Takehara takes about an hour via public transit. The charm of Takehara is immediately evident as you step into its well-preserved streets, lined with traditional buildings. The Saihoji Temple provides a peaceful pause, with architecture dating from the Edo period, and grounds perfect for photos or quiet reflection.

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Midday: Exploring Takehara’s Heritage

Your guide will walk you through the Matsusaka family residence, a classic example of merchant architecture. Inside, artifacts tell stories of wealthy Edo merchants, giving you a tangible connection to Japan’s past. Then, a visit to the Okakae Jiz Statue adds a bit of local folklore, believed to grant wishes — an adorable tradition that many visitors find charming.

Afternoon: To Rabbit Island

After a quick lunch break on your own, you’ll head to Tadanoumi Port for the ferry ride across the Seto Inland Sea to Okunoshima. The ferry offers a scenic crossing with views of the water and distant islands.

Once on the island, the guided tour of ruins reveals its secret history as a wartime chemical weapons site. Many travelers find this part surprisingly moving, as they realize how much history is hidden beneath the cute bunny exterior. Then, you’re free to roam, feed rabbits, and enjoy the natural beauty.

Evening: Return and Reflection

The return ferry marks the end of your adventure, with a final train ride back to Hiroshima. The entire day runs smoothly thanks to efficiently coordinated transportation and the detailed guidance provided.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re seeking a well-organized, authentic day trip that combines cultural insights, wildlife encounters, and scenic views, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for history buffs, animal lovers, and curious travelers who enjoy actively exploring rather than just observing from a bus window.

For those wanting a taste of traditional Japan, the well-preserved streets of Takehara are a highlight. Animal enthusiasts will love wandering among the friendly rabbits and feeding them in their natural habitat. With the added bonus of a knowledgeable guide, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this unique corner of Hiroshima Prefecture.

However, if your priority is a very relaxed, seated experience or if you need accommodations for mobility issues, you might want to consider other options. The walk and outdoor activities, while manageable, are central to this tour’s appeal.

This is a fantastic value for the price, offering a full day of diverse, memorable experiences that reveal both the history and the playful spirit of Japan.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour covers all transportation between activities, including public transit and ferry tickets, simplifying your day.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 9.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a camera, sunscreen, and hats. Food and drinks are available on Rabbit Island, but it’s good to have snacks in case.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves outdoor walking and may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Is the tour suitable for pets?
Pets are not allowed during the tour.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is pre-arranged with a set schedule, but you have free time on Rabbit Island to explore independently.

Is there a lunch option included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to buy food during the day.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this tour available in languages other than English?
The guide speaks English; however, some reviews mention the option for Spanish or other languages, but this may depend on the guide.

Can I book last minute?
Availability depends on the schedule, so check current openings — but booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

To sum it up, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated mix of culture, history, and adorable animals, all within a manageable and value-packed day. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to see a different side of Hiroshima region — less touristy, more authentic, and full of surprises.

You can check availability for your dates here: