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.
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The natural riches of Rishiri Island (1)
Located in the middle of the island, sprawling out in all directions, Rishiri Mountain is home to many unique plants, flowers, and birds. The top of the mountain is home to many endemic species of flowers, including the beautiful Rishiri Poppy and Trollius Pulcher. At the beginning of spring, many rare and endangered birds also visit the island.
Moreover, Rishiri Mountain is home to many fun activities all throughout the year. In summer, one can climb the mountain through two different courses offering different views. While in winter, one can enjoy snowshoe trekking or backcountry skiing in the powder snow while taking in the miraculous views.
A recommendation for those who do not want to climb the large mountain, there is also a much smaller peak named Pon Yama (444m). After enjoying the day, why not stop by the peaceful Rishirifuji spa, or the relaxing foot bath to refresh the body?
The natural riches of Rishiri Island (2)
The mountain is also home to mountain spring water designated as one of Japan’s top 100. The water is unique in that it is a result of snow and rain that frequently falls on the mountain, then goes through processes of osmosis over many years while passing through the mountain.
The freshwater can be drunk on the Oshidomari mountain climbing route, near the third station. It is full of natural minerals and has a very refreshing, pure taste. The mountain spring water also runs down the mountain all the way to the ocean.
That is why even in the harsh northern climate, Rishiri Island is home to high-grade Konbu (edible kelp), Uni (sea urchin), and a plethora of delicious fish in the sea surrounding the island. Rishiri Mountain is not only beautiful but also supports the lives of the islanders through this.
There are also other activities to do while taking in the great views of the sea and mountain. Sea kayaking and fishing are very popular recreational activities on the island. There is also a road only for bicycles, the cycling road, on which one can enjoy a long bike ride surrounded by nature in the forest while being cooled by the salty sea breeze.
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