Contents
1.Basic Information
Wakkanai, Rebun Island, and Rishiri Island are the northernmost tourist spots in Japan. You can enjoy the natural monument marking Japan’s northernmost point in Wakkanai, Mount Rishiri in Rishiri Island, and the beautiful seas and alpine plants of Rebun Island.
White Road of Wakkanai
The “White Road” is a part of Wakkanai’s footpath course made using scallop shells and spans approximately 3KM. Originating in the UK, a “footpath” is a trail where you can enjoy the untouched landscapes of an area. This “White Road” was first created in 2011 and became popular on social media platforms for its picturesque views. From this road, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of 57 wind turbines, Sakhalin, and Mount Rishiri.
Mount Rishiri (Rishirifuji)
Mount Rishiri, standing at 1,721m and located on Rishiri Island, is often referred to as “Rishiri Fuji” due to its resemblance to Mount Fuji. From the summit, one can enjoy panoramic views of Rishiri Island, Rebun Island, and Hokkaido.
Diamond Rishiri
Twice a year, in April and August, the setting sun aligns perfectly with the peak of Mount Rishiri, creating a scene reminiscent of “Diamond Fuji”. The best views can be seen from the Wakasanai district on the outskirts of Wakkanai. By driving and monitoring the sun’s position, you can find the perfect spot where the sun sits directly above Mount Rishiri.
Rebun Island
Rebun Island, located 60 kilometers west of Wakkanai City, is the northernmost island of Japan. Known as the “Floating Island of Flowers”, Rebun Island boasts about 300 different types of blooming flowers. The island offers seven hiking trails, and with no bears or snakes, tourists can safely explore.
2.Reviews
Mount Rishiri (Rishirisan)
“Rishiri” in the indigenous Ainu language translates to “mountain on the tall island”. There are two hiking routes to the mountain, with the “Sagidomari Course” recommended for beginners.
Cape Sukai (Sukaimisaki)
This cape on Rebun Island is a popular tourist spot and a highlight for those exploring the island. The beautiful, clear waters of its bays change colors with the sunlight, offering views of the “Rebun Blue” – a jade-colored sea. If you’re lucky, you might even spot seals along the coast of Rebun Island.
3.Local Food
4.Transportation Information
■How to get to Wakkanai City:
JR Hokkaido [Available in English, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese]
https://jrhokkaidonorikae.com/pc/
Wakkanai City Official Website [Available in English, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese]
https://www.city.wakkanai.hokkaido.jp/access.html
■How to get to Rishiri Island & Rebun Island:
Heartland Ferry [Available in English, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese]
http://www.heartlandferry.jp/
5.Map Information
Located in the northern part of Hokkaido, Wakkanai City is the northernmost gateway in Japan. Surrounded by the Sea of Japan, Soya Bay, and the Sea of Okhotsk, it’s the closest point in Japan to Sakhalin, at a distance of about 43 km. Influenced by a maritime climate, the city experiences relatively warm winters. However, around February, drift ice can flow into the Soya Strait.
