The best cycling routes around Rabbit Island

There are 6 touring cycling routes around Rabbit Island, offering a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars.

Rabbit Island is surrounded by the warm Seto Inland Sea, making it enjoyable for cycling for much of the year. Summer offers opportunities for swimming at the island's beaches. However, the island's natural beauty, including its forests and coastal views, can be appreciated in various seasons. Be aware that rabbits are present year-round.

Yes, the island's compact size and dedicated cycle paths make it suitable for families. Routes like the Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop, an easy 18.6 km path, offer gentle slopes and flat sections, perfect for a relaxed family outing. Bicycle rentals, including electric bikes, are available at Kyukamura Ohkunoshima.

The terrain on Rabbit Island is characterized by gentle slopes and flat sections, making it accessible for various skill levels. You'll cycle through coastal paths, forested areas, and open fields, with the island's summit offering 360-degree panoramic views.

As you cycle, you can discover several points of interest. Consider visiting the Rossmore Point Beacon for scenic views, or explore the historical Old Castle Archdale. The island also features a picturesque lighthouse on its southern tip and the Hill of the Evening Sun, ideal for sunset views.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For instance, the Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop from White Island is an easy 14.2 km path that features coastal sections and historical points. The island's entire circumference is about 4 km, which can be comfortably cycled as a loop.

Bicycle rentals, including electric bikes, are conveniently available at the island's only hotel, Kyukamura Ohkunoshima. This makes it easy to explore the island on two wheels even if you don't bring your own.

Rabbit Island is famously home to hundreds, if not thousands, of free-roaming, tame rabbits. You will frequently encounter them hopping onto the paths and eagerly approaching visitors, making for a unique wildlife interaction during your ride.

Beyond its natural charm, Rabbit Island has a fascinating history. You can visit the Tully Castle Ruins, or explore abandoned wartime landmarks like the Power Plant Ruins and Northern Cannon Battery Remnants, which offer a glimpse into the island's past as a secret chemical weapons factory.

The entire island has a circumference of about 4 km, which can be comfortably cycled in approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, allowing for stops and exploration. Longer routes like the Boa Island Road loop from Kesh can take around 1 hour 50 minutes for a 30.6 km ride.

The island's hotel, Kyukamura Ohkunoshima, provides accommodation, a restaurant, and an onsen for relaxation. Additionally, there are camping grounds for those wishing to extend their stay. Bicycle rentals are also available at the hotel.