🗺️ Rishiri Island

Rishiri Island is located about 50 kilometers west of Wakkanai City on the Sea of Japan, off the northern coast of Hokkaido. The nearly circular island is dominated by Rishiri Mountain, which stands at an elevation of 1,721 meters. The entire island is designated as part of Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park. The island has a circumference of about 60 kilometers, and it takes approximately 1.5 hours to drive around it; cycling around the island is also an option. The island boasts many breathtaking views, including not only Rishiri Mountain but also stunning spots like Otatomari Marsh (オタトマリ沼), Hime Marsh, and Fujinoyama Park, offering charming seasonal landscapes. Particularly from June to October, the island is rich with alpine plants, making it the best season for hiking and climbing. Local dishes made from fresh seafood are also very popular. Among them, sea urchins that have grown on Rishiri kelp are synonymous with summer delicacies on Rishiri Island. The sea urchins caught around Rishiri include both the northern purple sea urchin and the horse mackerel sea urchin, which are often prepared as sea urchin rice bowls or in a traditional earthenware pot. To reach Rishiri Island, you can take a ferry from Wakkanai Port or fly to Rishiri Airport from airports within Hokkaido (though flights are limited).

Mount Rishiri, with an elevation of 1,721 meters, is the symbol of the island. It features several stunning spots such as Otatomari Marsh and Hime Marsh. The best time to visit is from June to September when alpine plants are in full bloom. Sea urchins that have grown on Rishiri kelp are a must-try local delicacy. You can reach the island by ferry or by flying from airports within Hokkaido.