The Official Hokkaido Adventure Travel Guide

RISHIRIFUJIDestinations

The majestic floating island

Located on the northern tip of Hokkaido, Rishiri Island is 52 km west of Wakkanai city, which is the northernmost city in Japan. In its very center is a 1721 m tall mountain called Rishiri Mountain. Known by its other name, Rishirifuji, it is consistently selected as one of Japan’s 100 most beautiful mountains.

Climbing Rishirifuji is an unique experience. One begins the climb at sea level, then from the peak a miraculous 360-degree view of the entire island is visible. The island was designated as a part of “Rishiri Rebun Sarobetsu National Park” in 1974. Home to unique plants only found on the tall mountain, world-class, delicious konbu (edible kelp) and uni (sea urchin), gorgeous seaside views, and ample amounts of untouched nature; Rishiri is an island made just for nature lovers.

There are two ways to travel to Rishiri Island. One way is by a 50-minute flight from the Sapporo Okadama or New Chitose airport. The second way is by JR train, stretching from Sapporo to Wakkanai, where one can take in the beautiful scenery of Hokkaido from inside the train. After the train, take an hour and forty-minute ferry ride from Wakkanai, and one will arrive at Rishiri Island.

map pin