🏔️ Rishiri Island (利尻島) – Hokkaido
A Volcanic Island of Pristine Nature and Hidden Serenity
Rishiri Island, located off the northwestern coast of Hokkaido, is a remote volcanic island known for its majestic Mount Rishiri (利尻山), dramatic coastlines, and rich natural beauty. Often called the “Floating Island” due to its symmetrical mountain rising above the sea, Rishiri offers a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
🌋 Mount Rishiri – The Heart of the Island
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A dormant volcano at 1,721 meters, also known as Rishiri-Fuji for its resemblance to Mt. Fuji
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Popular among hikers for its challenging summit trail and spectacular views
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Featured on the packaging of the famous Japanese sweet Shiroi Koibito
🚴♂️ Island Activities
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🥾 Hiking & Trekking: Trails range from casual walks to the full-day summit climb
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🚴 Cycling: The Rishiri Island Cycling Road circles the island with ocean views and Mt. Rishiri always in sight
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🚢 Boat Tours: Get views of coastal cliffs, sea caves, and seabirds
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🌸 Wildflowers: Summer brings colorful alpine flowers across the island
🏖️ Natural Highlights
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Oshidomari Port – The main entry point with ferry access and local accommodations
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Cape Peshi (ペシ岬): A short climb with panoramic views of the town and coastline
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Otatomari Marsh (オタトマリ沼): A scenic pond with a reflection of Mt. Rishiri
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Cape Sukoton (スコトン岬): The northernmost point, offering views of neighboring Rebun Island
🦀 Local Flavors
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🍜 Try uni don (sea urchin rice bowl) – Rishiri is famous for its fresh sea urchin, best in summer
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🍲 Rishiri kelp (利尻昆布) is prized across Japan for its rich umami and used in high-end dashi (broth)
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🐟 Other seafood like scallops and herring are also local specialties
🚢 How to Get There
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🛳️ Ferry:
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From Wakkanai Port to Rishiri (about 1 hour 40 minutes)
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Also accessible from Rebun Island via a short ferry ride
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✈️ Flight:
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Daily flights from Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport to Rishiri Airport (about 1 hour)
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🏡 Accommodation
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Options include hotels, ryokan, guesthouses, and campsites
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Some offer on-site hot springs (onsen) with views of the sea or mountain
🎯 Why Visit Rishiri Island?
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🏞️ Unspoiled nature and rugged volcanic landscapes
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🚶♂️ Challenging hikes and scenic walking trails
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🚲 Peaceful island life — perfect for cyclists and solo travelers
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🍽️ Taste some of the best uni and kelp in Japan
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📸 Fantastic photography spots for both land and sea
Rishiri Island is a destination for those seeking natural beauty, solitude, and adventure. Whether you come for the mountain, the seafood, or the quiet charm of island life, Rishiri is an unforgettable escape in Japan’s far north.
Official Website
https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/2150/
Accommodation sites
Agoda
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