Rebun Island

These islands belonged to the Ainu until the migration of the Japanese to Hokkaido began in the 1870s. Heavy snow in winter. Summer is the best time to visit. To get to Rishiri or Rebun, take a ferry from the city of Wakkanai. There are also ferries directly connecting Rishiri and Rebun. There are about five services a day during summer, and this is cut back in winter. 2nd class one way tickets to Rishiri or Rebun cost ¥2200. Like many other Japanese ferries, 2nd class has almost no seating inside -- you sit on tatami mats on the floor (after taking your shoes off). There is outdoor seating, weather permitting. Bus timetables are available at the ferry terminals and on the ferry itself. 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 may be desirable to take buses or taxis to the trailheads. Cars, bikes and scooters are available for rent. It is also possible to book a nature tour by bus on the islands. 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. The specialty of Rebun is raw sea-urchin served on a bed of rice, called Uni-don (ウニ丼) and it's wonderful....