-This is "Hokkaido Dokodemo Travel Agency" on the outskirts of a certain town. This is a travel agency that has a reputation for introducing customers to the perfect travel destination. What kind of place will they take us to today?

Rabbit Yukine (hereinafter referred to as "Yu"): Look at this, Rabbit!

Domiko (hereafter referred to as "Do"): What's up? "Rishiri Island and Rebun Island PR Ambassador"?

Yu: I was appointed!

Do: So that's why you've been talking about the island so much lately. That's amazing!

Clang clang ♪

Customer (hereinafter referred to as "Customer"): Hello.

D: Welcome!

Yu: Welcome!

Customer: Actually, I've been wanting to relax in Hokkaido, and I was wondering if there was anywhere where I could spend some time relaxing in nature...

Yu: What great timing! Rishiri Island and Rebun Island are a perfect match!

Do: Rishiri Island and Rebun Island are the northernmost remote islands in Japan, and you can enjoy nature that can only be seen here and a laid-back island lifestyle.

Customer: Sea urchins, summer activities, and also alpine plants are famous! I've seen them in books and guidebooks and I'm interested in them. Can you tell me more about them?

Yu: Of course!

D: Yes! I'll explain it in detail.

Thank you, Domiko and Yukine. From here on, I will give you a detailed introduction through narration.

What kind of places are Rishiri Island and Rebun Island?

Rishiri Island and Rebun Island are islands floating in the Sea of Japan, about 52 to 60 km west of Wakkanai City. Rishiri Island is home to Mount Rishiri, which stands at 1,721 meters above sea level and has been selected as one of the 100 most famous mountains in Japan. On Rebun Island, about 300 species of alpine plants bloom in full glory from spring to summer.

The majestic Mount Rishiri, also known as "Rishiri Fuji"

The beautiful contrast between the flowers and Mount Rishiri

Every year, many people visit the island to enjoy the alpine plants, which are unique to the northernmost remote island. Flowers that you would normally have to climb to the mountains to see can be seen here at 0 meters above sea level.

The best time to see the Rebun Lady's Slipper, an endemic species of Rebun Island, is from late May to mid-June.

The best time to see the Rebun Island endemic "Rebun-trumpet" is from early June to late June.

Activities to enjoy on Rishiri Island and Rebun Island

There are also plenty of activities to experience on an island so rich in nature. On Rebun Island's 50km-long nature trails, you can stroll through flower fields or walk along scenic routes overlooking the beautiful ocean. There are seven different trail courses to enjoy, each with its own unique charm.

The 12.4km long Cape Tour Course takes you around the scenic spots in the northern part of Rebun Island.

There is also a Rebun Falls course for advanced climbers.

"Rebun Island Trail 7" held in 2022

Rishiri Island, home to Mount Rishiri, also known as "Rishiri Fuji" for its majestic appearance, offers marine sports such as sea kayaking and SUP in the crystal clear waters in summer, and in winter you can enjoy backcountry skiing and snowshoe trekking in a landscape surrounded by sea on all sides.

You may encounter dolphins and seals while enjoying sea kayaking on Rishiri Island.

Sliding down from a view surrounded by the sea is something you can only do on an island.

You can experience activities according to your physical ability.

The must-try gourmet food of Rishiri Island and Rebun Island

Another enjoyable thing is the food. There are plenty of delicacies that can only be eaten here, such as sea urchin and Rishiri kelp, which are famous nationwide.

The creamy and sweet sea urchin rice bowl is excellent

"Tororo Konbu" is also a popular souvenir.

Other dishes on offer include fresh, fatty Atka mackerel, which is in season from July to September, and luxurious Rishiri Island ramen, made with broth made from Rishiri kelp and topped with seafood, so you'll never be able to stomach more than a few...

Atka mackerel chanchanyaki served with special miso sauce and spring onions

Rishiri ramen has even been awarded the Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide

Access to Rishiri Island and Rebun Island

There are two ways to access the island: by plane or by ferry. If you go by plane, it is convenient to use Hokkaido Air System's flights that connect Sapporo Okadama Airport to Rishiri Island. The flight takes about 55 minutes from Sapporo to the island.

"Rabbit enjoying an elegant flight!" by Rabbit Yukine

Hokkaido Air System's Sapporo Okadama-Rishiri route connects central Sapporo with the island.

Ferries also depart from Wakkanai to both Rishiri Island and Rebun Island, and you can travel between the two islands by ferry.

If you go by ferry, it takes about 1 hour 40 minutes from Wakkanai to Rishiri Island, and about 1 hour 55 minutes from Wakkanai to Rebun Island.

Do: ...And that's all for today's reservation information. I hope you have a great time.

Yu: Here's a souvenir! I made it for you!

Customer: Thank you! I'll come back and let you know what I thought of the island when I get there.

D: Yes! Thank you very much!

Yu: Thank you Usa!

--This is Hokkaido Anywhere Travel Agency. So, what kind of charms of Hokkaido will they show us next? Please look forward to the next one!