Travel off the beaten track to the northern tip of Japan, home to Rebun and Rishiri islands. Explore the region’s varied trails along rugged coastlines and clifftops. Refuel with seafood at local restaurants and hot spring soaks.

This tour is perfect for adventurers who dream of deep exploration into remote corners of Japan that most travellers would never have the opportunity to visit. Mountains meet the ocean on these unique islands.

The tour takes place in the Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park, which sits at the very top of Hokkaido and is the northernmost national park in Japan. The southern tip of Sakhalin Island (Russia) is only 40km away - this is as far north in Japan as you can get!

The islands have a distinct ecosystem with striking Siberia-like landscapes in close proximity to the ocean. Leave the sticky summer heat behind and enjoy the refreshing summer hiking in this subarctic region!

Tour Highlights

Island hop in Japan’s northernmost National Park.

Discover why these islands have their own individual charms - despite being neighbours.

Hike on the “floating flower garden” – Rebun Island.

See alpine flowers growing along the seashore and search for endemic orchids.

Enjoy views of the amazing Mt. Rishiri, a stratovolcano towering above the ocean.

The imposing peak stands at 1721m and is listed as one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains.

Savour the Northern Islands’ seafood-oriented gastronomy.

The waters around the islands are teaming with seafood, from scallops to konbu kelp and you won't find it any fresher than at the restaurants in the local fishing ports.

Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrive in Wakkanai

Welcome to Wakkanai, Japan's northernmost city and jumping off point for your adventure! As a coastal city, Wakkanai offers excellent seafood dining options - from fresh sushi to robata-yaki (seafood grilled over open flame).

Your hotel is conveniently located among local izakaya bars and restaurants where you can enjoy dinner at your leisure.

Day 2

Day 2 - Ferry to Rebun Island & Hike Momoiwa Trail

This morning you catch a two-hour ferry to Rebun Island, which means "island far from shore" in the Ainu language. After storing your luggage, you hike the Momoiwa Trail through the southern part of the island.

A moderate 45 minute uphill hike leads to the impressive Momoiwa - named "Peach Rock", and one of the island's most striking viewpoints. The trail continues along dramatic clifftops to Motoji Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of Mt. Rishiri across the sea.

After descending to Shiretoko, you return to your hotel where you can relax in the hot springs after dinner.

Day 3

Day 3 - Hike Capes Trail, Rebun Island

Today, you take a morning bus to Rebun Island's northern tip to hike the Misaki-Meguri Trail. Misaki-Meguri means "touring the capes" and the spectacular 14.2km coastal trail begins at Cape Sukoton, where sea lions can sometimes be seen on Todo Island. The path winds along dramatic seaside cliffs, passing Cape Gorota with its unique alpine flowers found nowhere else.

After a rest stop in Teppu village, you continue to Cape Sukai where you can grab a snack. Your day ends in Funadomari village, known for its harbour seal viewing, before catching your return bus.

Day 4

Day 4 - Ferry to Rishiri Island

You take a morning ferry from Rebun to Rishiri Island. After storing tour luggage, you explore the charming town of Oshidomari and walk up to Cape Peshi for panoramic views of the town against the backdrop of Mt. Rishiri.

For a longer adventure, you can take a bus to Himenuma, a pond where the summit of Mt. Rishiri is mirrored perfectly in calm conditions. To return, you either catch a bus or enjoy a scenic 5.5km walk along an elevated cycling path offering beautiful ocean views through several viaducts.

Day 5

Day 5 - Climb Mt. Rishiri

Today you climb Mt. Rishiri (1721m), one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains.

Starting at dawn, you hike through pristine forests, passing Kanro-Sensui spring where you can fill your water bottles with the naturally sweet water. You climb above the tree line at the half way point, giving you ocean views for the remainder of the hike. The trail steepens toward Mt. Chokan before gaining an exposed ridge.

After passing a shelter hut, make your final push to the summit of one of Japan's northernmost peaks. The full hike takes around 11 hours. Your accommodation offers a 5 am shuttle and can prepare onigiri (rice balls) for lunch. Once back, relax your tired legs in the hot springs.

Day 6

Day 6 - Explore More of Rishiri Island

An open-ended day giving you the chance to take a well-deserved rest day after your Mt. Rishiri climb, or another attempt at the summit if yesterday's weather wasn't cooperative. For a gentler hiking option, head to Mt. Pon, where you can enjoy Rishiri's forests at a leisurely pace.

Alternatively, rent a bike or car to explore the island's remote attractions, including the scenic Otatomari Swamp and Senhoshi-Misaki Park, a breeding ground of Black-tailed Gulls. Local buses offer a 1-Day Unlimited Pass for exploring the southern half of the island.

Day 7

Day 7 - Travel to Kushiro & Onwards

On your final morning, you enjoy breakfast at your hotel before bidding farewell to Rishiri Island. You catch the ferry back to Wakkanai, where you have several onward travel options: take a bus to Wakkanai Airport for flights to Tokyo, catch a direct highway bus to Sapporo, or board an express train to Asahikawa.

Make sure you leave plenty of time for connections as transport on and off the wild islands is at the mercy of the weather.

“Went off without a hitch.”

My self guided tour went off without a hitch. The hotels provided breakfast and dinner. Each had an onsen to soak tired muscles after a day of hiking. The guide book and cue sheets were informative and assuring. I was able to use the guide book as a guide and add on activities along the way.

Shirley from USA

Dates & Prices

Pick your departure dates

Travel Style

We will arrange accommodation, activities and give you transportation information but the rest is up to you. Going self-guided means being your own boss - you have complete control over the day’s schedule, from what to eat to how long to spend at a destination. This tour is therefore perfect for independent travellers who love the flexibility that comes with travelling alone, but want some help planning and arranging their trip. It also makes a great self-guided extension to any of our more involved guided tours!

During your tour, you will travel by public transport. We will provide you with timetables and a suggested schedule and you just have to get yourself there. There are no luggage transfers provided in the tour, so pack light and embrace the freedom as you explore our unique island.