Rishiri and Rebun Islands: The Floating Flower Islands with Mt. Rishiri

Off Wakkanai in northern Hokkaido, Rishiri and Rebun offer remote island nature impossible to find on the mainland — crystal-clear seas, wide skies, and dramatic scenery. The graceful cone of Mt. Rishiri rising from the sea and the alpine flowers of Rebun, the "Floating Flower Island," make this pair of isles one of Hokkaido's most memorable island journeys.

Rishiri Island

• Mt. Rishiri (Rishiri Fuji): A 1,721 m volcanic cone rising straight from the sea, resembling Mt. Fuji and serving as the island's symbol
• Alpine plants: As you climb, island-endemic species such as Botankinbai appear along the slopes
• Scenic ponds: Himenuma and Otatomari Pond mirror the peak on calm days
• Seafood: Sea urchin, scallops, and abalone served ultra-fresh; the uni rice bowl is a local favorite

Rebun Island

• Alpine Flowers: Rare alpine species bloom near sea level from early summer, earning the nickname "Floating Flower Island"
• Scoton Cape: One of Japan's northernmost capes, with wild, windswept scenery
• Eight-Hour Trekking Course: The "Love and Romance" route crosses the west coast from Hamanaka to Kafukai, an unpaved trail of roughly 30 km for experienced hikers

Getting There

• From Wakkanai Port by Heartland Ferry: about 1 hour 40 minutes to Rishiri (Oshidomari Port), about 2 hours to Rebun (Kafuka Port)
• Between Rishiri and Rebun by ferry: about 45 minutes
• To Wakkanai by plane or rail from the rest of Hokkaido

Practical Travel Notes

• Ferry sailings are limited each day and can change with the season and weather; check timetables in advance and keep your schedule flexible.
• Accommodation on both islands is limited; book early during the summer flower season.
• The islands are windy and the weather changes quickly; bring a jacket and rain gear even in summer, and sturdy shoes for trekking.
• Sea urchin and other seafood are specialties, best in early to mid summer. On Rishiri, the uni rice bowl is essential eating.
• Get around by local bus, sightseeing bus, rental car, or rental bicycle; services are limited, so plan transport ahead.

One Piece of Advice

Rishiri and Rebun have distinct personalities — the majestic peak of Rishiri and the flower-filled meadows of Rebun. Linking the two by ferry lets you enjoy both mountain grandeur and a floral paradise in a single trip. Because remote-island weather is unpredictable, allow spare time in your plan and savor the quiet of Japan's far north.

📚 Sources

The information in this article is organized from tourism details published by the towns of Rishiri, Rishirifuji, and Rebun and their tourism associations, along with public guidance from the operators of the ferry and island facilities. Ferry schedules and the condition of each highlight can be checked through the operators' official information. Fees, hours, and access may change, so please always confirm with official sources before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: Allow a full day or more to tour an island's main spots, or an itinerary with an overnight stay to cover both islands.
• What to bring: Prepare cash for ferry fares and food, and comfortable shoes, cold-weather gear, and water since you walk outdoors and on trails.
• Getting around: The islands are mainly reached by ferry, so check schedules in advance and plan with some leeway.
• Suggested route: After arriving by ferry, link the views of Mount Rishiri, the alpine-plant spots, and scenic capes.
• A note on safety: Ferries can be affected by weather and sea conditions, so build a schedule with some spare time.