Signs do not fix problems

baby rabbit immobilized due to GI stasis

11/24/25

If the Ministry of the Environment truly believes that simply leaving the rabbits "to nature"—as they put it—while tourists interact with them out of good intentions, will result in a smooth flow of tourism revenue for Takehara City, then they are engaging in a misguided, amateurish form of animal-based tourism.

Nowhere else can you find a place where you can approach such adorable rabbits without any fences or barriers, and feed them to your heart's content.

It is only to be expected that accidents will occur—such as rabbits being accidentally stepped on, or children seeking attention from inattentive parents causing harm to the animals (a phenomenon that, surprisingly, happens quite frequently).

This situation did not begin yesterday or today. After visiting this site for twelve years, it is my firm opinion that no matter how many signs are posted or how many people offer verbal warnings, it is—quite frankly—like pouring water on a hot stone; it makes absolutely no difference.

Theft of rabbits, abandonment of rabbits, and even the abuse of rabbits will undoubtedly continue in the future.

With no rangers permanently stationed on-site, what exactly are they hoping to achieve?

Unless they adopt a management model similar to a petting zoo—where, for instance, feeding times are restricted—there is simply no way to protect the vulnerable baby rabbits from harm.

Rather than placing their hopes on the manners of tourists, the authorities must shift their focus toward actively managing and protecting the rabbits; otherwise, there will be no end to the suffering and sacrifice of the island's rabbit population.

Who will raise their voice on behalf of the rabbits?

Ministry of the Environment, Chugoku-Shikoku Regional Environmental Office — National Parks DivisionEmail: REO-CHUSHIKOKU@env.go.jp