ITINERARY
Exploring the Sarobetsu Plain and the Remote Islands of Rebun and Rishiri
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Strike out to Hokkaido to discover the wetlands of Sarobetsu, as well as the singular beauty of Rishiri and Rebun, the northernmost inhabited islands in Japan. You'll find stunning landscapes, flowers, and other picturesque views on this itinerary that takes you over the seas and marshlands.
Itinerary Highlights
- A walking tour of the Sarobetsu wetlands.
- Ferry trips between Hokkaido and the islands of Rebun and Rishiri.
- Morning hikes through serene island landscapes.
The sweeping wetlands of the Sarobetsu Plain
Arrive at Wakkanai Airport in the morning and travel onward to the Sarobetsu Plain. Your first stop will be the Sarobetsu Wetland Center, where you can learn about the origins of this lush natural landscape. Next, go on an hour-long guided boardwalk tour which takes you through the wetlands while your knowledgeable guide provides information about the features of the local landscape, like the beautiful alpine flora.
After the tour, head over to the town of Wakkanai by car. Along the way, you'll be able to see splendid views of Mount Rishiri from the coast. Take the Heart Land Ferry to Rebun Island, a two-hour trip over the Sea of Japan. Once you arrive in the village of Kafuka, walk or take a taxi to your hotel and unwind for the night.
Hiking through Rebun Island
In the morning, take a bus from your hotel to join a half-day guided hike from Shiretoko bus stop all the way to the Momoiwa Observatory. You'll discover spectacular views of Rebun Island's flowers and rocky cliffs, as well as of volcanic Mount Rishiri on the neighboring island.
Find something to eat in the area and spend the afternoon as you wish. Then travel by the Heart Land Ferry to Oshidomari Port on Rishiri Island and check in to Rishirifuji Onsen, where you will spend your second night in Hokkaido. Make sure to get a good rest as the next day's activities begin early in the morning.
A daybreak excursion around Himenuma Pond
The final leg of your journey begins with a daybreak walk around Himenuma Pond, a sanctuary for endangered birds surrounded by virgin forests and featuring views of Mount Rishiri looming in the distance. Return to your hotel for breakfast after this invigorating experience and bask in the afterglow.
Spend the rest of the morning exploring the island by car at your own leisure. There are plenty of sites worth visiting, such as Mikaeridai Picnic Site, the Kanro Sensui natural spring, or the hiking trails going up Mount Rishiri itself. In the late morning, check out of your hotel and head over to Oshidomari Port. You'll take the Heart Land Ferry back to Wakkanai and arrive at the airport by mid-afternoon for your return flight.