Rishiri & Rebun Island Hopping: Hokkaido’s Wild North Summer Tour

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

1. DAY

   01

   Sapporo - Wakkanai

   Your Northernmost Hokkaido Adventure Begins!

   　

   Welcome to Japan! Prepare for an extraordinary journey as your special tour to the northernmost reaches of the country commences. Today, you’ll transfer to Wakkanai, a captivating city at the very top of Hokkaido. We recommend you taking flight from Sapporo to save time for sightseeing!

   Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the unique charm of the Wakkanai area. Start by ascending the 100th Anniversary Tower, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the vast Soya Strait, and even Sakhalin Island on a clear day. Next, step back in time with a visit to the iconic Wakkanai Port North Breakwater Dome, a magnificent historical structure resembling an ancient Roman archway, offering a glimpse into the city’s maritime past. To truly savor the local flavors, head to local Market, a bustling local market where you can indulge in incredibly fresh seafood, straight from the northern seas.

   As the day winds down, check into your accommodation. Tonight, you’ll sleep soundly, dreaming of the exciting island adventures that await you tomorrow!

2. DAY

   02

   Wakkanai - Rishiri Island

   Rishiri Island Cycling: A Hokkaido Summer Dream!

   

   Today, we’ll embark on an early morning ferry to Rishiri Island, a true gem of the Hokkaido summer! Upon arrival, we’ll pick up our rental bicycles and set off to explore this captivating island. The full loop around Rishiri is approximately 60km, offering a fantastic way to experience its diverse beauty.

   For the most breathtaking and ever-changing views of majestic Mount Rishiri, we highly recommend the dedicated cycling road connecting the “Oshidomari” and “Kutsugata” areas. This specially maintained path winds through stunning natural landscapes, providing unparalleled vistas of the mountain’s shifting appearance as you cycle. It’s an invigorating way to immerse yourself in the fresh air and scenic beauty that defines a Hokkaido summer. This cycling adventure truly highlights the active and vibrant spirit of a Hokkaido summer getaway!

   Discover Rishiri Island: A Cycling Paradise

   This island offers an unforgettable Hokkaido cycling adventure, perfect for those seeking stunning natural beauty and active exploration. Mount Rishiri, often called “Rishiri Fuji” due to its graceful, conical shape, dominates the island’s landscape, offering breathtaking views from every angle.

   On a customized Hokkaido tour, you can cycle the approximately 60km loop around the island, enjoying ever-changing vistas of this majestic peak. The dedicated cycling roads provide a safe and scenic way to immerse yourself in the fresh air and stunning coastal scenery. It’s a prime destination for an active Hokkaido cycling experience, allowing you to connect deeply with the natural tranquility. Our Hokkaido tour specialists can help you craft the perfect itinerary to include this incredible island escape.

3. DAY

   03

   Rishiri Island - Rebun Island

   Hokkaido's Marine Bounty & Island Adventures

   

   After a delicious breakfast, why not dive into a unique Hokkaido seafood processing experience? During the hokkaido summer tour season, you can enjoy a sea urchin shucking experience, learning how to prepare this prized delicacy, and also participate in a Rishiri kelp souvenir-making workshop. These hands-on activities allow you to truly appreciate the rich marine bounty of Hokkaido’s pristine waters, transforming fresh ingredients into memorable keepsakes, a highlight of any japan tour.

   In the afternoon, we’ll take a scenic ferry ride to Rebun Island, where new adventures await you on this hokkaido summer tour. This island exploration is an essential part of your japan tour, promising unique discoveries.

   Rishiri Kombu: A Culinary Treasure from Hokkaido

   What makes Rishiri Kombu so special is its ability to produce a remarkably clear, elegant, and intensely flavorful dashi (Japanese soup stock). Unlike other varieties, Rishiri Kombu yields a delicate umami without imparting any strong color or overpowering taste, making it highly prized by top chefs, particularly in Kyoto’s refined kaiseki cuisine. This sophisticated flavor profile is a direct result of the island’s unique marine environment and the meticulous harvesting and drying processes.
   Experiencing Rishiri Kombu is more than just tasting; it’s a deep dive into the essence of Hokkaido local food culture. You can learn about its cultivation, witness the traditional drying methods, and even participate in workshops to create your own kombu souvenirs. This immersion offers a profound appreciation for the natural bounty of Hokkaido and the dedication of its local producers. Don’t miss this authentic taste of Hokkaido local food on your next trip!

4. DAY

   04

   Rebun Islaand - Rebun Island

   A Day of Alpine Flowers and Panoramic Views

   

   Today is dedicated to exploring the enchanting Rebun Island! This remarkable island is home to an abundance of alpine plants, creating a breathtaking natural display. As you trek, the sight of these beautifully blooming flowers, set against the vast expanse of the ocean and the majestic silhouette of Mount Rishiri (Rishiri Fuji) in the distance, is an absolute marvel – it’s a view so stunning, it feels like it could simply whisk away any fatigue from your journey.

   Take your time to stroll leisurely through the many beautiful spots where vibrant flower fields and spectacular vistas intertwine. Forget your daily worries as you immerse yourself in this unparalleled scenery, and fully embrace the splendor of summer in Hokkaido!

5. DAY

   05

   Rebun Island - Bifuka

   Wildflowers and Hidden Gems

   

   Today, we leave the remote islands behind and return to mainland Hokkaido. After a refreshing ferry journey, our first stop is the stunning Sarobetsu Primeval Flower Garden. Here, you’ll embark on a guided walk tour, led by a local expert, through vast wetlands adorned with a spectacular array of wildflowers. Keep your eyes peeled – if you’re lucky, you might even encounter various wild birds thriving in this unique ecosystem.

   Following this immersive nature experience, we’ll visit the Horonobe Visitor Center. This spot offers a chance to discover hidden gems and experiences that aren’t typically found on standard tourist routes. You can delve deeper into the local environment, learn about the region’s unique flora and fauna, and perhaps even engage in an activity that provides a more intimate connection with the area.

6. DAY

   06

   Bifuka - Asahikawa

   Master the Art of Soba: A Unique Japanese Culinary Experience

   　

   Today, prepare for a truly authentic culinary adventure in Japan as you participate in a soba-making experience with the renowned Soba Girl Ishikawa-san! She’s a celebrated artisan who has even achieved the incredible feat of being recognized as Japan’s best in soba making, a testament to her dedication and skill. Ishikawa-san is known for her passion in sharing the intricate craft of soba preparation, bringing a fresh and engaging approach to this traditional Japanese art form.

   Under her expert guidance, you’ll learn the delicate steps of transforming buckwheat flour into delicious soba noodles. From mixing and kneading the dough to rolling it out and skillfully slicing it into fine strands, you’ll gain hands-on insight into this meticulous process. This immersive experience offers more than just making food; it’s a deep dive into Japanese culinary heritage. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own fresh soba, a true taste of local Japan, before savoring the fruits of your labor!

7. DAY

   07

   Asahikawa - Asahikawa airport

   Farewell Hokkaido: Last Moments of Summer Beauty in Asahikawa

   

   Today marks the final day of your amazing Hokkaido journey. Before your flight from Asahikawa Airport, you’ll have some free time to explore the beautiful Asahikawa area, offering a perfect conclusion to your Japan summer adventure.
   You might choose to visit the famous Asahiyama Zoo. In the bright summer Hokkaido sunshine, the animals are incredibly active and easily observed in their unique, naturalistic enclosures. Witness dynamic polar bear swims or playful monkey antics, offering a vibrant and engaging Japan summer experience!
   Alternatively, we also highly recommend a visit to Ueno Farm, where wonderful flowers bloom in spectacular fashion. This stunning garden is is a true highlight of summer Hokkaido, renowned for its unique “Hokkaido Garden” style that seamlessly blends with the vast natural landscape. You’ll discover diverse plants and flowers in full bloom, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere that is truly a highlight of Japan summer. It’s an ideal way to appreciate the natural beauty of summer Hokkaido before your departure.