The Most Beautiful Far-Northern Land: Rishiri Island in Hokkaido

▲ The most beautiful far-northern land, Rishiri Island in Hokkaido. (Photo / Courtesy ofWikipedia)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

Located at the northernmost tip of Hokkaido and locally known as the “floating island on the sea,” Rishiri Island has become a must-visit destination for many travelers heading to Hokkaido. This is thanks to its inclusion of Mount Rishiri, one of Japan’s Hundred Famous Mountains, and its uniquely pristine natural landscapes, which have been promoted extensively over the years by local tourism authorities.

It takes about two hours to reach Rishiri Island by ferry from Wakkanai, or 20 to 25 minutes by plane from New Chitose Airport. The island is a volcanic island centered around Mount Rishiri, although there are no records of past volcanic activity in known historical documents. A 25-kilometer-long cycling route has been developed across the island, allowing visitors to ride along the coast and through forests while enjoying the island's diverse scenery.

Towering at the center of the island, Mount Rishiri, ranked as No. 1 among Japan’s Hundred Famous Mountains, is also known as “Rishiri Fuji.” With an elevation of approximately 1,721 meters, it presents a spectacular view from the western coast of Wakkanai. The famous Hokkaido sandwich biscuit “Shiroi Koibito” also uses this mountain as its logo. The mountain is home to a variety of alpine plants that grow only here, as well as colorful flowers that are a feast for the eyes on clear days. Although hiking trails have been established on the mountain, those aiming for the summit should be prepared for a real climb.

Rishiri Island offers different charms throughout the four seasons, especially after winter arrives, when the snow-covered peak gives Mount Rishiri a silver coating, rivaling the snowy beauty of Mount Fuji. The peak flowering season generally runs from April to mid-September, peaking in July and August. It’s also important to note that from December to February each year, the average temperature on the island drops to around -7°C, and ferry services are often suspended, so it’s essential to check before you go.