Itineraries The rugged beauty of Hokkaido’s far north Back to nature in Rebun and Rishiri islands

A pastoral landscape against the ocean

This northernmost point of Japan is a popular stopping point for viewing Sakhalin across the waters. Facilities include gift shops, windmill, and a monument dedicated to Russian-Japanese peace. Explore the rolling pastoral scenery of Soya Hills via the White Road, so named because it’s made of crushed scallop shells.

Take a break and enjoy local delicacies

Situated along National Route 238 in Sarufutsu village in the southeast of Wakkanai, Sarufutsu Park consists of hot springs, a campground, a hotel, and a few monuments. Fuel up with food at the restaurant or stalls here – the must-tries include scallops, and the cowberry soft serve ice cream.

See colourful flowers along wooden trails

Located in the Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park, the Sarobetsu Wetland Center is famous for its hundreds of kinds of flowers that bloom from June to September. Wooden paths traverse the wetlands, along which visitors can appreciate this colourful view in 30 minutes, and spot rare wild birds along the way.

Gorgeous sunset views across the Sea of Japan

Located at the tip of Wakkanai Peninsula, Noshappu is popular for its sunset views across the Sea of Japan, with the islands of Rishiri and Rebun just offshore. From July to August, watch locals gather kelp along the shore, or visit attractions like the Cold Current Aquarium and the Wakkanai Lighthouse.

Sleepy port town with a fishing heritage

This sleepy, northernmost port town in Japan is also the main access point to both Rebun and Rishiri islands. Visit Fukuko Market or Kita Market for fresh seafood (especially sea urchin), sample Russian food at Restaurant Pechka, or check out Japan’s northernmost train station and scenic Wakkanai Koen Park.

Trek around beautiful Rebun Island

Rebun has trekking courses that lets you explore the island’s unique alpine flowers which bloom from June to August. Highlights include Momoiwa hill, the steep coastline at Motochi, and the scenic Cape Gorota. Try your hand at sea urchin shucking, or enjoy the public hot springs near the ferry terminal.

A campground right by the cape

Located at the west end of Rishiri, Kutsugatamisaki Park is a popular campground that can accommodate multiple camps and tents, located along the coast with scenic views of the cape. The campground is equipped a kitchen and coin laundry facilities, and has an observation deck and souvenir shop.

For a local art experience

Situated within a century-old wooden building that used to be the island’s seafood wholesaler is Kaisou no Sato, an art gallery and cafe serving local coffee and kelp chips. You can try your hand at kelp crafting, which involves pressing local flowers and seaweed into souvenirs like bookmarks and keychains.

A scenic trailhead viewpoint

Located on the western part of Rishiri island, the observatory is located at the trailhead for the climb to Mt. Rishiri. The climb is scenic, with views of firs, birches, and creeping pines, and from the observatory you can see Mt. Rishiri and neighbouring Rebun island.

Spot adorable seals at Senhoshimisaki Park

The rocky coastline of Senhoshimisaki Park was formed when Mt Rishiri erupted thousands of years ago, creating natural tide pools filled with wildlife. Visitors can feed adorable spotted seals at one of these pools, rescued by local fishermen, by purchasing fish sold at the park’s gift shop.

See the reflection of the scenic landscape in the pond

Otatomori is the largest pond on Rishiri, surrounded by a lush green wetland dotted with wildflowers. Take a walk through the wetland on wooden paths that are built around the pond, where on a clear day, you can see the reflection of Mt. Rishiri.

For gorgeous views of the bay

Situated on a hill along the road to Himenuma, the observatory offers gorgeous views of the seaside town, the Oshidomari Bay, and the protruding Cape Peshi. You can also spot Mt. Rishiri from this spot.

An immersive art park that will engage all your senses

Located in a large forest, the open-air Art Park inspires creativity through its art studios, outdoor stage, museum, and music rooms. In addition to seasonal exhibitions, their studios lets you get hands-on with crafts like woodworking and glassmaking. Come here to observe and create art, and recharge in their restaurant and cafe.

Shop til you drop at this shopping arcade

Established in the 19th century, this 1km-long covered pedestrian arcade still boasts a retro atmosphere. Located in downtown Sapporo, it boasts around 200 establishments, including souvenir shops selling snacks and souvenirs unique to Hokkaido, and restaurants serving local delicacies. Stop by the Tanuki Shrine, home to the guardian deity here.