'''Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park''' (___K_____T___x_c________) is on the north-west tip of Hokkaido, Japan. It consists of two islands, Rishiri-to (___K__) and Rebun-to (______), and an adjacent section of coastline on Hokkaido itself, known as the Wakasakanai Coast (_t_____C__). The two islands are the main attraction of the area, featuring native wildflowers, spectacular landscapes and fantastic hiking for both experienced and beginner hikers.

Understand

Rishiri-to is a small island off the north-west coast of Hokkaido made up of a single volcano called Rishiri-san (___K_R) which towers some 1719m over the surrounding sea. It can be seen from over 100km away.

Rebun-to is the smaller of the two with its highest peak, Rebun-dake (_____x) a mere 490m (and thus much easier to climb). The island has many wildflowers and some waterfalls, and the view of Rishiri-to from it is nothing short of spectacular.

History

These islands belonged to the Ainu until the recent migration of the Japanese to Hokkaido.

Landscape

Flora and fauna

Climate

Heavy snow in winter. Summer is the best time to visit.

Get in

Getting to the island of Rishiri and Rebun requires getting on one of the ferries from the northernmost city of Wakkanai. There are about five or six services a day during summer, but this is really cut back in winter. 2nd Class tickets to Rebun cost ¥2200 one way. These ferries are like many other Japanese ferries: 2nd Class has no seating inside - you sit on the floor (after taking your shoes off of course). There is seating outside if the weather is nice enough.

There are also limited turboprop plane services from Wakkanai.

Fees/Permits

None required

Get around

There are buses on both islands. Bus timetables are available at the ferry terminals and on the ferry itself. Rishiri has a bike path that circles the whole island. Roads don't go to the interior of either island, so the best way to see them is on foot. There are hiking trails on both islands that really let you explore the best parts of the islands, and it is convenient to take the buses to the trailheads.

Cars are available for rent on Rebun-to. It is also possible to book yourself on a nature tour by bus on the islands.

See

Wildflowers on Rebun and the amazing view from the peak of Rishiri. You can see the Russian island of Sakharin on a clear day.

Do

Hiking is the main activity that can be done, and there are fantastic trails for beginners and experts alike. Hiking maps are available in English from Wakkanai railway station and the ferry terminals.

On Rebun-to, the main hike is the Hachijikan haikingu-kosu (_______n_C_L___O_R_[_X), which literally translates as the "Eight Hour hiking course". It runs along the eastern coast of the island from the northern to the southern tips. The actual walking time depends on the speed of your group (you shouldn_Lt hike alone). Though 8 hours are doable, youre more likely to find yourself at around 10 hours. It ss also possible to walk only the first 3 hours and than track 1 more hour across the country to catch the Bus for the ferry terminal. For the not-so-keen, there's a shorter, 40 minute hike to the Momoiwa (Peach Rock) lookout (_____W_]__) starting nearby the ferry terminal town of Kafuka (___[). This lookout offers fine views of Rishiri-to and Momoiwa, a rock which is shaped, well, like a peach. There are many other interesting hikes around the island.

On Rishiri-to, the big hike is the grueling climb to the peak of Rishiri-san. It will take 10 hours to climb and descend - proper hiking gear and adequate provisions of food and water is a must. Easier trails also exist if this hike seems beyond your own ability.

Buy

Eat

The specialty of Rebun-to is raw sea-urchin served on a bed of rice, called uni-don (_E_j__). Be warned: it's for the adventurous only - not many Westerners appreciate this expensive Japanese delicacy. It can be found in eateries surrounding the ferry port terminal at Kafuka.

Drink

Sleep

Lodging

  • Momoiwa-so Youth Hostel. za Motochi, Kafuka, Rebun-to. here is a bus service, but mainly just look for the hotel staff for transportation, they are easily recognisable, as they will be frantically waiving the YH flag, while screaming okaerinasai! as the ferry arrives.. 1638-6-1421. ttp://www.youthhostel.or.jp/English/n_momoiwaso.htm. 150 JPY. Nothing in the world can quite prepare you for a stay at this wonderfully wacked youth hostel, but if you bring a huge dose of self-irony and enthusiasm, a stay here can easily turn out to be your greatest experience in Japan. While the 9.30PM lights out, and a strict no alcohol policy, can sound dull, rest assured, after a day of hiking, singing and dancing you won't mind the early lights out one bit. The Youth Hostel is also in a great Location next to the Sea at the end of a little dirt road just around the Corner of the Momo-iwa (Peach-rock).

    Camping

    There are several campgrounds on both islands.

    Backcountry

    Is a must to really experience these islands.

    Stay safe

    The trail to the peak of Rishiri is not easy. With general hiking common sense it will be a safe, but challenging, climb.

    Get out