Rishiri Island

These islands belonged to the Ainu until the migration of the Japanese to Hokkaido. Heavy snow in winter. Summer is the best time to visit. To get to Rishiri, 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. In addition, many cruise ship routes include Rishiri as a stop. There are also limited turboprop plane services from Sapporo and Wakkanai to Rishiri Airport. Bus timetables are available at the ferry terminals and on the ferry itself. Rishiri has a bike path that circles the whole island with occasional segments on roads rather than paths. Roads don't go to the interior of the 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 are available for rent. It is also possible to book a nature tour by bus on the islands. There are amazing views from the peak of Rishiri. You can see the Russian island of Sakhalin on a clear day. Hiking is the main activity that can be done, and there are fantastic trails for beginners and experts alike....