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Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park
by Yi Wei OOI
20 September 2023
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Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park, located in the northernmost region of Hokkaido, Japan, is a natural wonderland of diverse landscapes and unique biodiversity. This national park boasts volcanic cones, peat marshlands, coastal cliffs, and pristine shorelines. Its rare and colorful plant life, including species found nowhere else, adds to its allure. The park is a vital stopover for migrating birds, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities. Beyond the Hokkaido coast, the park includes Rebun and Rishiri Islands, home to rare wildlife like white-tailed eagles and black woodpeckers. Mount Rishiri, a prominent volcanic cone on Rishiri Island, is a popular hiking destination, providing sweeping vistas. The transformation of the Sarobetsu Plain from a lake into peat marshlands adds another layer of ecological significance. Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a rich tapestry of natural wonders and outdoor activities.
Highlights of Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park
Rebun Island (礼文島)
Rebun-to Island, located off the coast of Japan in the Sea of Japan, is a unique destination measuring 20 kilometers north to south and 5 kilometers east to west. It offers diverse landscapes, featuring striking sea cliffs on the west and rolling hills with alpine vegetation on the east, shaped by strong westerly winds and cold climates.
Known as the "floating island of flowers," Rebun-to Island blooms with vibrant summer flowers, including exclusive species like C. marcanthum Sw. var. rebunense, Primula farinosa subsp. modesta var. matsumurae, and Leontopodium discolor.
Wildlife enthusiasts can spot rare species such as white-tailed eagles, black woodpeckers, and migrating whistling swans, making it a haven for birdwatching.
Culturally, the island is a significant producer of Rishiri Kombu, a high-quality kelp in Japanese cuisine. Visitors can observe the traditional kelp drying process and enjoy fresh seafood, including renowned Rishiri Kombu and sea urchin.
The best time to visit is spring to autumn for vibrant colors and ideal weather. Winter travel may be disrupted due to ferry cancellations.
Hikers can explore the stunning coastal vistas and cliffs on the west coast, with recommended routes like the four or five-hour hike from Cape Sukoton to Kafuka. Consider a one or two-night stay for a comprehensive experience. Rebun-to Island offers a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and adventure on Hokkaido's eastern coast.
Access
Traveling to Rebun Island from Wakkanai offers various transportation options for your convenience. You can take a ferry from Wakkanai to Rebun (Kafuka Port), with a 115-minute journey and 2-4 round trip ferries available daily. Alternatively, there's a 40-minute ferry ride from Rishiri Island (Oshidomari Port) to Rebun Island (Kafuka Port) with 1-2 round trip ferries per day, as well as a 40-minute ferry from Rishiri Island (Kutsugata Port) to Rebun Island (Kafuka Port), operating once daily during the summer. If you prefer flying, consider flights from Sapporo Okadama Airport to Wakkanai Airport (50 minutes, 2 flights per day), or from Sapporo New Chitose Airport to Rishiri Island (50 minutes, 1 round-trip flight per day, not available in winter), and Sapporo Okadama to Rishiri Island (55 minutes, 1 flight per day). Train travel takes around 5 hours from JR Sapporo Station (3 trains per day) or 3 hours and 40 minutes to 4 hours and 50 minutes from JR Asahikawa Station (7 trains per day). Buses run for 5 hours and 50 minutes from JR Sapporo Station to JR Wakkanai Station (6 buses per day). If you choose to drive, it's a 5-hour and 40-minute journey from JR Sapporo Station to Wakkanai, 4 hours and 50 minutes from JR Asahikawa Station to Wakkanai, or 5 hours and 30 minutes from JR Abashiri Station to Wakkanai.
Rishiri Island (利尻島)
Rishiri Island, situated about 20 kilometers off the northwestern coast of Hokkaido, is a captivating destination dominated by the imposing presence of Mount Rishiri, which rises to 1,721 meters above sea level. This volcanic island, with a roughly 60-kilometer circumference, is renowned for its cone-shaped peak and is the centerpiece of the Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park.
Mount Rishiri offers two challenging hiking trails to its summit, Oshidomari on the north coast and Kutsugata on the west coast. Scaling this peak takes approximately five hours and is recommended for experienced hikers due to extensive erosion, especially in colder months. Along these trails, you'll traverse diverse landscapes, from small lakes and marshlands in the foothills to dramatic vistas of the island and surrounding seas as you ascend. The upper slopes are adorned with alpine flora, including the endangered Rishiri hinageshi (Papaver fauriei), a unique yellow poppy species exclusive to Rishiri.
For those starting their journey on the Kutsugata Trail, the Mikaeridai Picnic Site awaits, featuring an observation deck offering panoramic views of the Sea of Japan. This site is also a favorite among locals for stargazing, as it provides a virtually unpolluted night sky.
During your ascent on the Oshidomari route, you'll encounter the Kanro Sensui freshwater spring at the Third Station, providing a refreshing stop to savor the sweet mountain spring waters.
Exploring the lakes at Himenuma or Otatomarinuma offers spectacular views of Mount Rishiri. Gentle shoreline trails wind through forests and grasslands, providing opportunities for birdwatching, including sightings of black woodpeckers.
As you embark on your Mount Rishiri adventure, please adhere to the Rishiri rules for hiking etiquette and safety. Be cautious of steep rocky stretches and dangerous spots on the Kutsugata course above Mt. Sancho. Rishiri Island's stunning landscapes and unique natural beauty await those who are ready to explore its rugged terrain and hiking trails.
Access
Traveling to Rishiri Island from Sapporo is convenient with several transportation options. You can take a 50-minute flight from either New Chitose Airport (CTS) or Sapporo Okadama Airport (OKD) to Wakkanai Airport (KUH). From Wakkanai, a 40-minute ferry ride to Rishiri Island's Oshidomari Port awaits, with 1-2 round-trip ferries operating daily. Alternatively, opt for a 5-hour train journey from JR Sapporo Station to JR Wakkanai Station, available three times a day. Bus travel is also an option, taking around 5 hours and 50 minutes from JR Sapporo Station to JR Wakkanai Station, with six daily buses. For those who prefer driving, a 5-hour and 40-minute car trip from JR Sapporo Station to Wakkanai is possible. Please check schedules and availability based on your travel dates and preferences.
Sarobetsu Plain or Sarobetsu-genya (サãƒãƒ™ãƒ„原野)
The view of Sarobetsu Plain from the wooden path leading from the Sarobetsu Wetland Centre.
The view of Sarobetsu Plain from the wooden path leading from the Sarobetsu Wetland Centre.
The Sarobetsu Plain, located in the Sarobetsu River basin of Hokkaido, Japan, is a remarkable expanse of peatland that has evolved over millennia. Over 6,000 years, plant residues have accumulated to create a unique moorland ecosystem. This vast plain, alongside Kushiro Marsh and Ozegahara, stands as one of Japan's iconic wetlands and is renowned for being the largest high moor on lower lands in the country. Among its captivating features is the Hitomi Swamp, home to Japan's largest floating island, and a comprehensive marshland ditch system that showcases the unparalleled grandeur of Japanese wetland landscapes.
Birdwatching enthusiasts find the Sarobetsu Plain a haven for avian observation. A preferred route for birders is the kilometer-long boardwalk starting at the Sarobetsu Wetland Center, offering numerous scenic viewpoints and rest stops for marshland viewing. Throughout the year, various bird species, including migratory bean geese during spring and fall, can be spotted here.
For a closer look at the region's marshland plant life, the Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden is a must-visit. Spring and summer bring a profusion of wildflowers, with one standout being the vibrant Ezo kanzou daylilies that paint the fields with bright yellow hues from late June to early July.
The Horonobe Visitor Center enriches your understanding of the Sarobetsu Plain's diverse plant and animal ecosystems through informative videos and exhibits. Its second-floor observation deck provides panoramic views of the majestic Mount Rishiri in the distance.
Nearby, the Panke Marsh Picnic Site offers another excellent vantage point for observing a variety of waterbirds and enjoying a breathtaking vista of Mount Rishiri. The Sarobetsu Plain is a natural wonderland that beckons visitors to explore its unique wetland treasures and breathtaking landscapes.
Access
To journey from Sapporo to the enchanting Sarobetsu Plain in Hokkaido, Japan, several transportation options are available. A practical approach is to take a train from Sapporo Station to Wakkanai Station, which is the nearest major transportation hub to the Sarobetsu Plain. The train ride, while scenic, takes approximately 5 hours and provides glimpses of Hokkaido's captivating landscapes along the way. From Wakkanai Station, you can opt for a bus or drive by car to reach the Sarobetsu Plain, a journey that typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, if you prefer the convenience of air travel, consider taking a flight from New Chitose Airport (CTS) to Wakkanai Airport (KWK), a flight duration of around 50 minutes. Upon arrival at Wakkanai, you can proceed to the Sarobetsu Plain by bus or car. Whether by train, plane, or car, your excursion from Sapporo to the Sarobetsu Plain promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Hokkaido's captivating wetland wilderness.
Sarobetsu Wetland Center (サãƒãƒ™ãƒ„湿原センター)
Various exhibition on the formation of the Sarobetsu plain, plants and animals and the history of the Sarobetsu Plain are available.
Free admission. November to April: 10.00-16.00 Closed on Mondays May to October: 09.00-17.00
The wooden path which can be accessed 24 hours a day.
Various exhibition on the formation of the Sarobetsu plain, plants and animals and the history of the Sarobetsu Plain are available.
Nestled in the heart of Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park in northern Hokkaido, the Sarobetsu Wetland Center serves as a gateway to explore the pristine natural wonders of the Sarobetsu Wetland. This educational hub offers a captivating journey into the region's rich biodiversity, boasting exhibits highlighting over 100 species of flowers and wild birds that call this wetland home. Visitors can engage with live camera feeds, explore informative displays, or choose to embark on guided tours led by experts in the field.
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A picturesque 1-kilometer wooden walkway extends from the center into the wetland, providing an immersive experience in the heart of this natural paradise. Along the way, you'll encounter a vibrant tapestry of birdlife and blooming vegetation. Pause for a moment of tranquility on the benches scattered along the path, and on clear days, be treated to a stunning view of Mount Rishiri in the distance.
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For those seeking in-depth exploration, the center collaborates with a certified NPO to offer guided nature walks (fee required) suitable for both small groups and larger tour gatherings. These programs range from leisurely guided strolls along the walkway to exhilarating snowshoe hikes through the wetlands and surrounding forests during the winter season. Winter enthusiasts can also rent snowshoes, long-boots, ski wear, hats, gloves, and other gear on-site for a nominal fee.
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Families are welcomed with open arms at the Sarobetsu Wetland Center, where a dedicated children's area offers engaging crafts and activities. Additional amenities include a museum shop and a restaurant serving delectable local dishes like Sarobetsu surf clam ramen and ice cream crafted from Toyotomi milk, a Hokkaido specialty.
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Operating hours vary by season, with the center open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during May to October and from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. from November to April. Please note that the center is closed on Mondays from November to April. While admission is free, fees apply for snowshoe and gear rentals, as well as guided tours. Pamphlets in multiple languages are available for international visitors. You'll find this immersive natural experience at 8662 Kami-Sarobetsu, Toyotomi Town, Teshio County, Hokkaido, with inquiries welcome at (+81) 0162-82-3232 or through their website here.
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Access
To get here is similar to Sarobetsu Plain and Sarobetsu-genya as the Sarobetsu Wetland Centre is located within the area. Just travel to the address by car Sarobetsu, Toyotomi, Teshio District, Hokkaido 098-2461, Japan. No known public transportation is available to access the area.