Rishiri & Rebun Islands Travel Guide: Peaks, Flowers & Northern Seas

Off the northern tip of Hokkaido, Rishiri and Rebun islands offer wild alpine landscapes, flower-lined trails, and pristine seas. Perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking untouched Japan.

Climb Rishiri Fuji, stroll Rebun’s alpine flower paths, kayak clear seas, and taste sea urchin fresh from the shell. These remote islands combine rugged adventure with calm beauty.

⛰️ Mt. Rishiri (“Rishiri Fuji”) 🌸 Rebun Flower Trails 🌊 Northern Ocean views

1) Mt. Rishiri (Rishiri Fuji)

A 1,721m peak rising from the sea, called “Rishiri Fuji.”

Highlights. Strenuous hike with alpine flowers, panoramic views of Rebun and Hokkaido.

From Kyoto. Flight to Wakkanai → ferry (~1h40) to Rishiri.

Pro tip. Summer climb (Jul–Aug) only. Overnight at mountain hut recommended.

Rishiri Island, Hokkaido

2) Cape Peshi

A rocky cape near Oshidomari Port with great views.

Highlights. Short climb rewards you with harbor panoramas and sunsets.

From Kyoto. Same route as Mt. Rishiri; 5 min walk from Oshidomari Port.

Pro tip. Visit at golden hour for best light.

Oshidomari, Rishiri Island

3) Himenuma Pond

A reflective pond with perfect views of Rishiri Fuji.

Highlights. Mirror-like reflections; easy 20-min walk around.

From Kyoto. Oshidomari → 15 min by car.

Pro tip. Best in morning calm; bring camera.

Rishiri Island, Hokkaido

4) Oshidomari Port

Gateway ferry port of Rishiri.

Highlights. Watch ferries and enjoy seafood stalls nearby.

From Kyoto. Wakkanai → ferry to Oshidomari.

Pro tip. Try fresh uni at local stalls.

Oshidomari, Rishiri

5) Rishiri’s Onsens

Relax with views of Rishiri Fuji.

Highlights. Open-air baths facing mountains or the sea.

From Kyoto. Access via Oshidomari or Kutsugata areas.

Pro tip. Sunset soak is unforgettable.

6) Rebun Flower Road

Alpine flowers bloom May–Aug, called “Floating Island of Flowers.”

Highlights. Hike along colorful meadows with sea views.

From Kyoto. Ferry Wakkanai → Rebun (Kafuka Port).

Pro tip. July peak season; bring layers for wind.

Rebun Island, Hokkaido

7) Cape Sukoton

Northernmost point of Rebun.

Highlights. Views to Todo Island, endless horizon.

From Kyoto. Kafuka → 50 min by bus.

Pro tip. Sunrise and sunset both magical.

Cape Sukoton, Rebun

8) Cape Sukai

Cliffs and cobalt seas.

Highlights. Short trail with blue ocean below.

From Kyoto. Kafuka → 30 min bus.

Pro tip. Midday light gives deepest blue.

Cape Sukai, Rebun

9) Momoiwa Observatory

Iconic peach-shaped rock viewpoint.

Highlights. Panoramic sea + flower carpets.

From Kyoto. Hike from Kafuka, ~1h.

Pro tip. Afternoon light best for photos.

Momoiwa, Rebun Island

10) Rebun Alpine Garden

Botanical garden of rare alpine plants.

Highlights. Learn local botany; easy access near Kafuka.

From Kyoto. Kafuka Port → 10 min walk.

Pro tip. Combine with Flower Road hike.

Top 5 Island Eats

Taste the sea and alpine bounty of Rishiri & Rebun.

1) Rishiri Kombu
Premium kelp used in top Kyoto dashi. Buy or taste in soups.

2) Uni (Sea Urchin)
Best June–Aug. Creamy & sweet, try at markets or donburi.

3) Hokkai Shrimp
Sweet northern shrimp, seasonal specialty.

4) Rishiri Ramen
Soy-based ramen with kombu-rich broth.

5) Rebun Potatoes
Unique variety grown in sea breeze, often buttered.

FAQ

How to access Rishiri & Rebun?

Fly from Sapporo to Wakkanai (~1h), then ferry to both islands. In summer, direct flights to Rishiri available.

When is the best season?

June–August for flowers & hiking. Winter is harsh and ferries limited.

Do I need a car?

Buses cover major spots, but a rental car helps flexibility.

Are accommodations available?

Yes: ryokan, pensions, and campgrounds. Book early in summer.

What’s the food highlight?

Uni in summer, kombu year-round, and fresh seafood daily.