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Rishiri Hokkaido: 'Rishiri Fuji' Northernmost 100 Mountain

Hokkaido Aomori Iwate Miyagi Akita Yamagata Fukushima
Rishiri Hokkaido: 'Rishiri Fuji' Northernmost 100 Mountain
Rishiri Island off Wakkanai, Hokkaido is centered on Mt Rishiri (1,721 m), called 'Rishiri Fuji.' One of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains. Ferry from Wakkanai.

Highlights

Rishiri Island at a Glance

Rishiri Island is one of Hokkaido’s northernmost islands, where you can enjoy Mt. Rishiri (“Rishiri Fuji”), alpine flowers, and ocean delicacies like uni and kombu—great for scenic drives and trekking.

Mt. Rishiri Trekking

Mt. Rishiri (1,721 m) is the island’s symbol, with 360° summit views and seasonal alpine plants from spring to summer (trailhead is near Oshidomari Port).

Scenic Lake: Otatomari Pond

Otatomari Pond is a classic photo spot where Mt. Rishiri can reflect on the water on clear days. The lakeside is also known for Rishiri kombu soft-serve.

Cape Peshi Observatory

Cape Peshi Observatory sits on a 93 m cape; a roughly 15-minute walk leads to big Sea of Japan views, and sunsets are also popular (near Oshidomari Port).

Senhoshi Misaki Park Seals & Coast

Senhoshi Misaki Park lets you see seals up close and may offer feeding experiences, along with a rugged lava shoreline walk and great Mt. Rishiri photo angles.

Rishiri Kombu Onsen

Rishiri Kombu Onsen (Rishiri Fuji Onsen Recreation Facility) offers baths with views of the sea and Mt. Rishiri, plus amenities like a sauna and rest areas.

Rishiri Access & Best Season

Wakkanai Port → Rishiri (Oshidomari Port) is about 1 hour 40 minutes by ferry (fares vary by season). Sapporo (Okadama) → Rishiri Airport is about 50 minutes. The best season is roughly June to September, and at least 1 night/2 days is recommended.

For the latest information, please refer to official announcements or check on site.

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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.

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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.


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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!

Frequently Asked Questions

A. Rishiri Island is one of Japan’s northernmost remote islands, and Mount Rishiri, at 1,721 meters, is its symbol. Whether the mountain is visible depends on the weather, so if you can see it when you arrive, it is worth taking photos right away before clouds move in.
A. The ferry between Wakkanai and Oshidomari on Rishiri takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes, and a one-way second-class fare is 3,590 yen. On rough days, the center of the cabin is usually more comfortable than the open deck, so storing your luggage early and securing a seat helps. Getting a good night’s sleep the day before also helps if you are worried about seasickness.
A. There are seasons when flights operate to Rishiri Airport, but they are easily affected by weather. If reliability matters most, going via Wakkanai by ferry is the safer choice. If you want to save time, flying may work better, but in either case, leaving enough time for connections makes the trip more stable.
A. If you want to drive around the island, a rental car is the most efficient option, and even 1 night and 2 days is enough for the main sights. If photography is your main goal, 2 nights is better so you can aim for morning and evening light. Early mornings in particular often have lighter wind and mirror-like reflections on the water.
A. The season after the snow melts is popular for trekking and alpine flowers, while weather tends to become less stable in autumn. The mountain can turn cold suddenly, so even on sunny days, carrying rainwear and choosing more waterproof shoes is reassuring.
A. Rishiri is known for specialties such as sea urchin and kelp, and many restaurants serve sea urchin only during its season. Popular places can sell out by lunchtime, so on the day you arrive, it helps to check opening hours and closing days, and visit the restaurant you want earlier rather than later.
A. Shops on the island are not as concentrated as on mainland Japan, and places open at night are limited. It is a good idea to secure water and light snacks on your arrival day and prepare cash early so you are not rushed before tours or activities.
A. Mount Rishiri is often covered by clouds, so a good strategy is to wait at a place where you can catch brief moments when the clouds part. At times of day when backlighting is strong, moving slightly inland rather than staying right on the coast can make the mountain outline stand out more clearly, and calm mornings are also good for reflection shots. A hat and drinking water are essential in the strong sun.

Useful Japanese Phrases

Meaning
Where does the ferry to Rishiri Island depart from? — Ask at Wakkanai Port information when boarding the Heart Land Ferry to Oshidomari Port. Say "sumimasen" first to get attention, then point to your ticket to make the destination clear.
Meaning
I would like to rent a car. — Use at the rental counter near Oshidomari Port. A car is the most practical way to get around Rishiri, so this is a useful phrase when you want to start sightseeing right after arrival.
Meaning
I want to go to the Mount Rishiri trailhead. — Say this to a taxi or bus driver heading for the North Foot Campground trailhead. Showing a map or the kanji "利尻山" on your phone helps the driver confirm the route.
Meaning
Can we see Rishiri Fuji today? — Ask hotel or shop staff in the morning. Weather changes quickly on the island, so if they say yes, head out and take photos right away before clouds roll in.
Meaning
How long does it take to walk around Otatomari Pond? — Ask at the shops near the pond before starting the loop trail through the Akaezomatsu spruce forest. Gesturing a circle with your finger helps clarify you mean the full lap.
Meaning
One Rishiri kombu (kelp) soft serve, please. — Order at the shops around Otatomari Pond. Kombu is dried kelp used in Japanese stock, and the soft serve has a subtle savory-sweet flavor unique to the island.
Meaning
Do you still have sea urchin rice bowls? — Ask at seafood restaurants, ideally before lunchtime. Popular shops often sell out of unidon (sea urchin over rice) during peak season, so arriving early improves your chances.
Meaning
Can I use the hot spring as a day visitor? — Ask at the Rishiri Fuji Onsen reception. Note that most onsen require bathing nude and guests wash thoroughly at the shower stalls before entering the communal bath; no tipping is needed.
Meaning
Is the sunset beautiful from Cape Peshi Observatory? — Ask locals or hotel staff near Oshidomari Port before heading up. The climb is short, and checking the weather first helps you choose the best time to go.
Meaning
What time is the last ferry to Wakkanai Port? — Ask at the Oshidomari Port ferry terminal counter. Schedules change by season, so confirm the return time on arrival day; no tipping is expected at the counter.
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