Hiking Mt. Rishiri

Mt. Rishiri, or Rishirifuji (利尻山), is a striking stratovolcano rising from the Sea of Japan to form Rishiri Island, Hokkaidō. Its perfect cone resembles Mount Fuji, earning it the nickname “Rishiri Fuji.” One of Japan’s 100 famous mountains, it sits between the towns of Rishiri and Rishirifuji, making it a must-see natural landmark on the island.

Hiking Mt. Rishiri

Mt. Rishiri Details

Mount Rishiri is a stunning 5,646 ft (1,721 m) stratovolcano located in the middle of Rishiri Island (利尻島), just off the northwest coast of Hokkaido. In fact, the entire island is essentially the mountain itself, with the summit near its center. Recognized as one of Japan’s “Hyaku-meizan", the country’s 100 famous mountains, Mount Rishiri offers hikers breathtaking views of Hokkaido, nearby Rebun Island, and even Sakhalin Island in Russia on clear days.

Mt. Rishiri - Rishiri Island, Hokkaido Prefecture

Mt. Rishiri Trails

Mount Rishiri’s remote location makes it a bit of a journey to reach. Travelers typically take a train to Japan’s northernmost stations before catching a ferry to Rishiri Island. For those driving, ferry access is still required to reach the island. Once there, climbers can choose between two main trailheads:

We started very early in the morning. Our hike started at the Rishiri Island Campsite "YŪNI"

The paved road stops here. It's also the trailhead of the Oshidomari Hiking Trail

Kanro Spring - The only water source on the mountain

• Oshidomari Hiking Trail (鴛泊登山道) – northern side, closer to the ferry terminal, popular and fairly well-maintained.
• Kutsugata Hiking Trail (沓形登山道) – western side, slightly more secluded.

An additional route, the Himenuma Ponyama Nature Trail (姫沼ポン山深勝路), starts near the Oshidomari Trail and joins it at Rishiri Hokuroku Campsite, offering a scenic detour.

The mountain officially opens for climbing with the annual Mount Rishiri Opening Festival held on July 2–3.

The Oshidomari Hiking Trail Info

The Oshidomari Trail is the most popular choice, largely due to its proximity to the ferry terminal and better trail maintenance. Here’s a breakdown of the route:

• Distance: 12.92 km (8.03 mi)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging; suitable for experienced hikers rather than novices
• No water sources or toilets along the upper sections, so prepare accordingly

Photos of our Mt. Rishiri Hike

On our way down, Mt. Rishiri was suddenly covered in fog

Trail Highlights

• Start to 1 mi / 1.6 km: Gradual ascent through a forested trail with rocks and tree roots.
• 1 mi to 2 mi / 1.6–3.2 km: Steeper climb, ascending over 1,100 ft (335 m).
• 2 mi to summit / 3.2–8 km: The final 3,000 ft of elevation gain is the most demanding stretch. Loose dirt and rocks require careful footing.

Trail Stations

As with many Japanese mountains, hikers will encounter numbered stations that serve as landmarks or resting points:

• 3rd Station: Kanro Spring
• 6th Station: Scenic viewpoint at 2,493 ft (760 m) above sea level
• 8th Station: Mount Chokan-yama at 3,996 ft (1,218 m)
• 9th Station: Privacy box for restroom needs at 4,626 ft (1,410 m)

Oshidomari Emergency Shelter

Between the 8th and 9th stations, there’s an emergency shelter that provides a small resting area.

Tips for Hiking Mount Rishiri

• Start early to maximize daylight and weather visibility.
• Carry sufficient water and snacks; upper trails have none.
• Wear sturdy hiking boots and consider gaiters for loose dirt.
• Check ferry schedules if you’re returning the same day.
• Respect trail markers and local customs at summit shrines.

Mount Rishiri is not just a hike—it’s an experience that combines natural beauty, physical challenge, and cultural tradition. For those exploring Hokkaido, it’s a must-add to any outdoor adventure itinerary.

Summit Experience

At the summit of Mount Rishiri, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views and a small mountain shrine, a common feature of Japanese peaks. A bench provides seating for around a dozen people, making it a perfect spot to pause and soak in the scenery. On clear days, you can see Hokkaido’s coastline, neighboring Rebun Island, and even distant Sakhalin Island.

The shrine on the peak of Mt. Rishiri is covered in snow

The shrine on the peak of Mt. Rishiri 

From the summit, hikers can descend via the Oshidomari Trail or try the Kutsugata Trail for a new perspective on the mountain’s rugged beauty.

The Backpack Adventures Hikes Mt. Rishiri

I had admired Mount Rishiri countless times during my Hokkaido 179 Road Trips, especially while driving north, but it wasn’t until October 21, 2023, that I finally hiked it. That day marked Day 719 in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. I was joined by the Tomamae Gang, Matsushita-sensei, and Jon for this adventure. Planning the hike took months, and fortunately, Matsushita-sensei handled all the reservations, including our overnight stay at Rishiri Island Campsite “YŪNI”, which allowed us to begin the hike early the next morning.

Mt. Rishiri as seen from Rishiri Fantastic Road

While the trail is fairly moderate with no extremely steep sections, the main challenge comes from the lack of water and toilet facilities on the upper trails. The climb takes roughly half a day, and reaching the 6th Station provides the first clear views above the tree line. Loose rocks and dirt make trail running gaiters a smart investment.

Getting to Mt. Rishiri

 

Arrive at Oshidomari Ferry Terminal

The ferry from Wakkanai (Hokkaido mainland) or Rebun Island will dock at Oshidomari Port on Rishiri Island. This terminal is the main gateway for hikers planning to climb Mount Rishiri via the Oshidomari Hiking Trail.

Walk or Take a Local Taxi to the Trailhead

Option 1 - Walking: The Oshidomari Trailhead is about 1–1.5 km (15–20 minutes) from the ferry terminal, depending on your pace. The path is along the main road, so it’s fairly easy to follow.

Option 2 - Taxi: If you have luggage or want to save time, local taxis can take you directly to the trailhead or nearby Rishiri Hokuroku Campsite. Taxi rides are short but may be more convenient if starting early in the morning.

Start at the Oshidomari Hiking Trail

The trailhead is well-marked and begins with a gradual ascent through the forest. From here, the Oshidomari Trail takes you past stations 3, 6, 8, and 9, all the way to the summit.

Optional Overnight Stay

Many hikers stay overnight at Rishiri Island Campsite “YŪNI” near the trailhead to start early and avoid rushing. This is especially helpful if you take the ferry in the afternoon or want to experience the mountain sunrise.

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