Rishiri and Rebun: Hokkaido's Northern Island Escape

Meet Rishiri and Rebun, two scenic islands off Hokkaido's far north, with a cone-shaped volcano, alpine flowers, seafood and easy ferry access.

Published October 17, 2026 at 9:11 PM JST | By Tokyo Paul

Quick answer: Rishiri and Rebun are two islands off Hokkaido's northwestern tip, both part of Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park. Rishiri is dominated by the 1,721 meter volcano Mount Rishiri, while Rebun is famous for its alpine flowers and hiking courses.

Two Islands at the Edge of the Map

Off the northwestern tip of Hokkaido, in the cool waters of the Sea of Japan, two small islands sit side by side like a pair of gentle sentinels. Rishiri is dominated by a graceful, cone-shaped volcano, while Rebun is a long, low island carpeted with alpine flowers. Together they form a quiet escape for travelers who want fresh air, big skies and the feeling of having reached somewhere truly northern. Many visitors treat them as a pair, spending a few days hopping between the two by ferry.

This guide introduces what makes each island special, how the two differ, and how to plan a calm and respectful trip. The islands are most inviting in the warm months, when flowers bloom and hiking trails are at their best, but they have appeal in other seasons too. Ferry schedules, trail conditions and facilities can change, so please check local and official information before you travel.

One National Park, Two Personalities

Both islands belong to Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park, which was established in September 1974. The park also includes a coastal strip from Wakkanai toward Horonobe on the mainland, including the Sarobetsu Plain, a broad wetland with peat bogs that was added to the Ramsar list of internationally important wetlands in 2005. The park is known for its alpine flora and its volcanic mountain views, an unusual and appealing combination.

Rebun lies about 50 kilometers off the coast and roughly 10 kilometers northwest of Rishiri, so on clear days Rishiri's peak can be seen across the water from Rebun. Rishiri is round and dominated by its volcano, while Rebun stretches long from north to south. Because of this contrast, visitors often describe Rishiri as the island for mountain views and Rebun as the island for walks among flowers. Choosing both gives you the best of each, with a ferry ride in between.

Rishiri: The Island Beneath the Cone

Rishiri Island lies about 20 kilometers west of Hokkaido and is formed by Mount Rishiri, an extinct volcano rising 1,721 meters. Its symmetrical cone looks so much like Mount Fuji that it is nicknamed Rishiri-Fuji. The mountain supplies fresh water to ponds and springs at its base. The climbing season is officially opened each year with a festival held in early July, and the route to the summit passes a campsite and an unmanned hut below the top, where a small shrine stands. The ascent is challenging in places and is not suited to novice hikers, so most visitors enjoy the mountain from the roads and lower trails.

The island's economy once relied on herring, and today it is better known for kombu, the kelp that is dried and used in Japanese cooking. Walking along the coast, visitors may see kelp spread out to dry on the shore in season, a scene that tells you a lot about the rhythm of island life. The main ports are Oshidomari in the north and Kutsugata on the western side, and the island is divided between the towns of Rishiri and Rishirifuji.

Smaller walks are just as rewarding. Pon-yama, a modest hill of about 444 meters near the north coast, is a smaller hiking goal than the main peak. Ponds and springs at the base of the mountain make for pleasant short strolls. After a day outdoors, island restaurants that serve local seafood and kelp are a fine way to end the evening.

Rebun: The Island of Flowers

Rebun covers about 80 square kilometers and is known as the island of flowers. It has around 300 species of alpine plants, some found nowhere else, and the town holds a flower festival every year. Among the best known is Rebun atsumori-so, a lady's slipper orchid that grows only on Rebun, and the town's mascot, Atsumon, is modeled on this lovely flower. Alpine flowers bloom from spring until about September, and the botanical garden is a good place to see species that may be past their wild peak.

Hiking is the main way to enjoy the island, and it is maintained with care by local volunteers. A long course runs the length of the island from north to south. It is called the Eight Hour Course and can be divided into two four-hour sections for those with less time. Seven courses in all are kept up by local volunteers, and the Mount Rebun course climbs to about 490 meters. Cape Sukoton, the northernmost point of the island, is another landmark that many visitors want to see.

Rebun also has a lively sea culture. Sea urchin fishing begins in early summer, and fishermen work in short, limited sessions to protect the stocks, a thoughtful approach to keeping the resource healthy. Konbu kelp is dried along the shore in some villages. With a population of about 2,500, the island is small and friendly, and small inns welcome travelers who come to walk. Respect the plants by staying on marked trails, since the delicate alpine flowers grow slowly and are protected within the national park.

Getting There and Planning Your Trip

Most travelers reach the islands from Wakkanai, the northernmost major city on Hokkaido's mainland. Ferries connect Wakkanai with both islands, and the crossing to Rebun takes about two hours by Heartland Ferry. Ferries also link Rishiri with Rebun, and Rishiri is connected by air to Wakkanai and to Sapporo's Okadama Airport. Because services are seasonal and weather can affect sailings, it is wise to book accommodation early and keep a day of flexibility in your schedule.

Pack for changing weather. Even in summer, wind off the sea can feel cool, so bring a windproof jacket, a hat, sturdy walking shoes and sun protection. On the longer trails, carry plenty of water and snacks, and tell your lodging where you are going. Bring any special items you need before you cross, since island shops are fewer than on the mainland.

Quick Takeaways

Rishiri and Rebun are Hokkaido's northern island pair, each with its own character. Rishiri offers the dramatic cone of Mount Rishiri, coastal roads and a proud kelp tradition, while Rebun is the island of flowers, with long walking courses and a lively fishing culture. Together they make a relaxed trip for hikers, nature lovers and anyone who enjoys quiet places.

Plan for a few days, travel by ferry from Wakkanai, and pack for cool breezes. Keep your pace slow, respect the flowers and the local fishermen, and the islands will reward you with wide horizons and warm hospitality. Have a lovely trip north.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Rishiri and Rebun?

Most travelers take a ferry from Wakkanai, the northernmost major city on Hokkaido. The crossing to Rebun takes about two hours by Heartland Ferry. Ferries also link the islands, and Rishiri has air links to Wakkanai and Sapporo's Okadama Airport.

When do the flowers bloom on Rebun?

Alpine flowers on Rebun bloom from about April to September. Rebun atsumori-so, which grows only on Rebun, can be seen at the town's Alpine Botanical Garden in July or August. Check local information for current bloom conditions.

Can beginners climb Mount Rishiri?

The ascent is challenging in places and is not suited to novice hikers. The climbing season is traditionally opened in early July, and a campsite and an unmanned hut lie along the route. Beginners may prefer lower trails.

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