What Is Rishiri Island? A Natural Paradise with Japan’s Northernmost Famous Peak
Rishiri Island (Rishiri-tō) is a beautiful remote island floating off the coast of Wakkanai in northern Hokkaido.
The island’s symbol is Mount Rishiri (1,721 m), also known as “Rishiri Fuji”, rising in the center of the island, and it is also known as a famous peak selected in Kyūya Fukada’s 100 Famous Japanese Mountains.
It is a destination known for magnificent nature and fresh seafood, and it is also designated as part of Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park.
Why Visit Rishiri Island
- Trekking “Rishiri Fuji,” the northernmost peak among Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, is popular!
- Alpine flower fields in bloom from June to August are spectacular!
- Rishiri kombu kelp and sea urchin are among Hokkaido’s best seafood delicacies!
- Enjoy a scenic drive around the island (about 60 km)!
About 1 hour 40 minutes by ferry from Wakkanai. Head out for an island trip full of amazing views and gourmet food.
Top 5 Recommended Things to Do on Rishiri Island
1. Mount Rishiri (Rishiri Fuji) – The Northernmost Peak in Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains
Mount Rishiri (Rishiri-zan) is a stratovolcano with an elevation of 1,721 m and the symbolic mountain of Rishiri Island.
Its beautiful conical shape rising from the sea is called “Rishiri Fuji,” and it is known as a dream mountain for climbers.
The climbing season is generally from June to September, and this is a full-scale mountain route requiring about 10 to 12 hours round trip.
What to Do
- Take on a serious summit hike via the Oshidomari Course (about 10 to 12 hours round trip)!
- Enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view from the summit. On clear days, you can even see Rebun Island and Sakhalin!
- June to July is peak season for alpine flowers. The Rishiri poppy (Rishiri-hinageshi) is endemic to Mt. Rishiri!
Access
- About 5 minutes by bus or taxi from Oshidomari Port to the trailhead (North Foot Campground)
Submitting a climbing plan is recommended. Be fully prepared for sudden weather changes.
2. Otatomari Pond – A Scenic Lakeside Spot Reflecting Rishiri Fuji
Otatomari Pond is a scenic spot where Rishiri Fuji is reflected on the water’s surface.
Surrounded by Akaezomatsu spruce forest, this quiet pond offers grand Hokkaido-style scenery.
A walking path is maintained, and you can stroll around it in about 20 minutes.
What to Do
- Enjoy seasonal scenery while walking around the lakeside!
- Try the local specialty “Rishiri Kombu Soft Serve” at a shop!
- On calm sunny days, you may see an upside-down reflection of Rishiri Fuji on the water!
Access
- About 20 minutes by car from Oshidomari Port
A classic Rishiri Island sightseeing spot where you can enjoy both amazing views and local treats.
3. Peshi Cape Observatory – A Viewpoint Overlooking Oshidomari Port
Peshi Cape Observatory is located on a cape rising behind Oshidomari Port.
You can reach the top in about 15 to 20 minutes, where you can enjoy a grand panorama of the Sea of Japan and Rishiri Fuji.
What to Do
- An easy climb you can do quickly while waiting for the ferry!
- At sunset, the sun sinking into the Sea of Japan is especially beautiful!
- Overlook Oshidomari Port and even photograph ferries arriving!
Access
- About a 5-minute walk from the Oshidomari Port ferry terminal to the trailhead
A spectacular viewpoint you can reach like a light hike. Sunset is especially recommended.
4. Senhōshi Misaki Park – A Coastal Park Where You Can Meet Seals
Senhōshi Misaki Park (Senhōshi Misaki Kōen) is a park at the southern tip of Rishiri Island.
You can see spotted seals kept in a rocky seawater pool in the park up close, and the feeding experience is also popular.
The rugged terrain formed by lava from Mt. Rishiri flowing to the coast is another highlight.
What to Do
- Feed spotted seals (buy seal food at the shop)!
- Walk along the rugged coastline created by lava!
- A scenic photo spot with Rishiri Fuji in the background!
Access
- About 40 minutes by car from Oshidomari Port
A family-friendly spot where you can see adorable seals up close.
5. Rishiri Fuji Onsen Health Facility – Relax in a Scenic Hot Spring!
Rishiri Fuji Onsen Health Facility (commonly called Rishiri Fuji Onsen) is a hot spring facility within walking distance of Oshidomari Port where you can enjoy a day-use bath.
You can bathe while looking at the grand form of Rishiri Fuji from the indoor bath and open-air bath.
It is perfect for relaxing your body after hiking or driving.
What to Do
- Relax in the open-air bath while viewing Rishiri Fuji!
- Soothe your body in the hot spring after hiking or driving!
- Also equipped with a sauna and rest space. Bath fee is 500 yen for adults!
Access
- About 5 minutes by car (about 10 minutes on foot) from Oshidomari Port
End your mountain trip with a relaxing soak in the hot spring.
How to Get to Rishiri Island: Access and Transportation
Access by Ferry (From Wakkanai)
- “Heart Land Ferry”: Wakkanai Port → Rishiri Island (Oshidomari Port)
- Travel time: About 1 hour 40 minutes
- Fares vary by class (example: 2nd-class unreserved seat, adult one-way 3,590 yen).
- ※The number of departures and times vary by season. Please check the official Heart Land Ferry timetable.
Access by Air
- Sapporo (Okadama) Airport → Rishiri Airport: about 50 minutes (Hokkaido Air System)
- New Chitose Airport → Rishiri Airport: about 50 minutes (seasonal service)
※Please check the airline’s official information for operation periods and schedules.
Getting Around the Island
Renting a car is the most convenient option.
The road circling the island is about 60 km, and you can drive around it in about 2 to 3 hours.
Local buses are also available, but service is limited, so be sure to check the timetable in advance.
Summary
✅ Rishiri Island is a Hokkaido remote island crowned by Rishiri Fuji, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains!
✅ Enjoy hiking, hot springs, and a scenic island drive!
✅ Fresh sea urchin and Rishiri kombu make it one of Hokkaido’s top seafood gourmet destinations!
✅ About 1 hour 40 minutes by ferry from Wakkanai, or about 50 minutes by plane from Sapporo/Okadama!
