From Hiroshima: Rabbit Island and Takehara Town Tour

This captivating day trip from Hiroshima offers an immersive exploration of Japan’s rich history and natural beauty. Visitors can wander the historical streets of Takehara, sample local sake, and discover the charming ruins and friendly rabbits of Rabbit Island. With all transportation, entry fees, and lunch included, this guided tour promises a seamless adventure filled with scenic vistas and cultural insights. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this unique experience is not to be missed.

This experience made our article of Visiting Hiroshima? Here’s Our Top 20 Tours Picks.

Key Points

• This day trip from Hiroshima showcases the scenic Rabbit Island and the historical Takehara Town, with a guided tour, sake tasting, and free time for exploring.
• The tour covers various activities, including visiting ruins, historical landmarks, a sake brewery, and feeding the resident rabbits on Rabbit Island.
• The tour package includes transportation, entry fees, lunch, and an English-speaking guide, providing a hassle-free experience.
• Participants should be prepared for activities like hiking, biking, and exploring historical sites, and the tour may not be suitable for certain groups.
• The tour offers a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility and peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a day trip from Hiroshima to the charming Rabbit Island and historic Takehara Town. Priced from $173.69 per person, the 9.5-hour experience accommodates up to 15 participants.

Guests can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. The tour includes a guided exploration of Rabbit Island’s ruins, a visit to a sake brewery, and free time to feed rabbits and enjoy activities like hiking.

Travelers will also discover the well-preserved Takehara Townscape Conservation Area. Transportation, entry fees, and lunch are provided, making this a convenient and comprehensive way to experience these unique destinations.

Experience Highlights

What makes this tour so compelling are the diverse experience highlights.

Visitors will explore the ruins and dark past of Rabbit Island with a guided tour. In Takehara Town, they’ll uncover the historical streets and landmarks like Saihoji Temple.

The tour also includes a visit to a sake brewery to learn about and taste local drinks.

On Rabbit Island, there’s free time to feed the friendly rabbits, soak in the hot springs, go hiking, or bike around.

The scenic views from an observation deck after a short hike are an added bonus.

Itinerary Details

After meeting the guide at Hiroshima Station, the tour begins with a visit to the Takehara Townscape Conservation Area. Guests will explore the historical streets and see notable sites like Saihoji Temple and the Matsusaka family residence.

Next, the group stops at the Okakae Jizō Statue, renowned for its mystical powers. They then tour a local sake brewery, learning about production and enjoying tastings.

The tour continues with a ferry ride to Rabbit Island, where visitors can stroll along the coast, discover ruins, and freely explore the island, feeding rabbits and engaging in optional activities.

Finally, they return to the mainland and train back to Hiroshima Station.

Inclusion

The tour includes an English-speaking guide to lead the group throughout the day.

Entry fees for all locations are covered, so there are no additional costs. Participants will receive rabbit food to feed the rabbits on Rabbit Island and have the opportunity to taste locally-produced sake.

Transportation between activities, including the ferry ride to Rabbit Island, is provided. Lunch is also included in the tour price.

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Important Information

The meeting point for the tour is under the Tourist Information sign outside the Shinkansen gates at Hiroshima Station.

Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera, sunscreen, and a hat.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, people with animal allergies, or pregnant women, as there are restrictions on pets and smoking.

Participants should be prepared for a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and exploring historical sites.

Following the tour guidelines will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Visiting Takehara Townscape Conservation Area

The tour starts with a visit to the Takehara Townscape Conservation Area, a historic district in the heart of Takehara.

Participants will explore the area, which features:

• Saihoji Temple, a centuries-old Buddhist temple with intricate architecture
• Matsusaka family residence, a well-preserved traditional Japanese home
• Okakae Jizō Statue, a mystical stone carving known for its spiritual power

Along the charming streets, visitors can admire the well-maintained historical buildings and soak in the town’s rich cultural heritage.

This provides an insightful introduction to the tour’s next stop – a local sake brewery.

Exploring the Sake Brewery

After exploring the historic streets of Takehara, the tour proceeds to a local sake brewery, where participants can explore the intricacies of this traditional Japanese beverage.

The guide leads the group through the brewing process, explaining the intricate techniques and natural ingredients that create the distinctive flavors.

Visitors have the chance to sample several varieties of sake, learning to appreciate the nuances between them.

This educational experience offers a deeper understanding of Takehara’s cultural heritage and the artistry behind its renowned local spirits.

The stop at the sake brewery is a highlight of the day’s itinerary.

Discovering Rabbit Island

Next, the tour group boards a ferry to venture across the waters to the famed Rabbit Island.

Upon arrival, they explore the island’s ruins, remnants of a dark past. The highlights include:

• Feeding the friendly rabbits that roam the island, a beloved activity for visitors.
• Hiking to the observation deck for panoramic views of the scenic landscape.
• Enjoying the island’s natural hot springs, bike rentals, and other recreational activities during free time.

With a guide leading the way, the group discovers the fascinating history and charming wildlife of this unique island destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for the Tour?

The tour group size is limited to 15 participants, allowing for a more personalized experience and intimate exploration of the destinations.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to Rabbit Island?

No, bringing your own food and drinks to Rabbit Island is not permitted. The tour package includes lunch, and visitors can purchase additional refreshments during the free time on the island. Participants must follow the guidelines set by the tour organizers.

What Type of Transportation Is Provided Between Activities?

The tour includes transportation between activities, such as a ferry ride to Rabbit Island and a train ride back to Hiroshima Station. All transportation, including ferries and trains, is provided as part of the tour package.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any specific discounts for children or seniors. However, the price listed is per person, so the overall cost would be lower for groups with minors or seniors.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour operator offers an option to extend the duration of the tour. Participants can inquire about longer or custom itineraries, which may incur additional fees. However, the standard 9.5-hour tour is the default offering.

The Sum Up

This guided tour from Hiroshima offers a unique opportunity to take in Japan’s rich history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the historic streets of Takehara, sample local sake, and discover the charming Rabbit Island, all while enjoying seamless transportation, entry fees, and a delicious lunch. It’s an unforgettable day trip packed with cultural insights and scenic wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: