Rebun Island, Japan's northernmost island. For flower lovers, nature lovers, or simply those who love remote locations, it's a place you won't want to miss. As it's an island that's rarely visited, if you do get the chance, you'll want to enjoy it to the fullest. This time, we'll give you a brief overview of the charm and highlights of Rebun Island, the "floating island of flowers," and hopefully it will be helpful for those of you who are dreaming of visiting someday.

1. About Rebun Island / How to get to Rebun Island

1-1. Rebun Island is an island of flowers

Photo by (c)Tomo.Yun http://www.yunphoto.net
Rebun Island is also known as the "Floating Island of Flowers." This is because, due to its location as the northernmost island in Japan, it boasts a unique vegetation where alpine plants bloom even at sea level.

Around June, as the island's tourist season begins, the plants that have been waiting in anticipation suddenly reveal themselves all at once. In the summer, the island is bustling with tourists who come to see the rare flowers while hiking and trekking.

Enduring the harsh climate beneath the snow, these flowers finally make their long-awaited debut. Blooming to their fullest extent, just to be seen by people, they captivate all who behold them.

The following photos are representative flowers taken by Mayor Ono of Rebun Town (from the flower section of the Rebun Town website).
Rebun Atsumorisou

Rebun Kozakura

レブンウスユキソウ

These representative flowers, along with over 300 other varieties, bloom profusely throughout Rebun Island.

1-2. About the Season

Photo by (c)Tomo.Yun http://www.yunphoto.net

Generally, the tourist season for Rebun Island is considered to be from early June, when the flowers begin to bloom to some extent, until late October, just before winter begins. But if you're going all the way there, you'll want to aim for the best time to see the flowers, right?

It depends on what flowers you want to see, but some representative flowers include the Rebun Primrose, which blooms from May to June, and towards the end of the season, the Rebun Buttercup and the Rebun Cypripedium, a symbol of the island and designated as a specific domestically rare wild plant, begin to bloom. You can see a colorful display of over 300 other plant species until around August. Since the majority of visitors come for trekking, the best time to visit is from June to August.

1-3. How to get to Rebun Island

The only way to get to Rebun Island is by ferry (excluding fishing boats, etc.). Also, you cannot fly to Rebun Island (the airport is currently closed).

The routes operating year-round are the direct service from Wakkanai to Kabuka Port on Rebun Island (approximately 2 hours), and the service from Oshidomari on Rishiri Island to Kabuka Port. In the summer, an additional route is added from Kutsugata Port on Rishiri Island to Kabuka Port (the journey from Rishiri Island to Rebun Island takes approximately 40 minutes).

And something you should definitely know is that the ferries get extremely crowded. The early morning queues at Wakkanai Port are practically a summer tradition. The busiest times are the first ferry of the day on the outbound journey and the last ferry of the day on the return journey. In those situations, be aware that you have two options.

■Book a 1st class ticket for a comfortable journey!
This is recommended for those who want to enjoy a comfortable cruise, even if it means paying extra.
Although it costs twice as much as second class, reservations are required, so you can be sure to secure a seat. First class is very comfortable, and the seats are as spacious as those in the Green Car on the Shinkansen. If you're traveling first thing in the morning, you can splurge on first class just for the outbound journey and use the two hours for a nap, thus conserving your energy.
(This is a first-class lounge seat. *An additional 530 yen is required on top of the first-class fare.)

■I want to keep my budget down by choosing 2nd class and avoid crowds!
As mentioned earlier, the busiest time for second class is the very first train of the day. Group tours usually arrive around this time. At peak times, it's not uncommon to see 15 to 16 groups! (If each tour group has about 25 to 40 people... it's quite nerve-wracking!) If you absolutely want to avoid the crowds, you can try shifting the season and time of day. Trends suggest that July and August are the peak months, so you might want to consider taking a train in early June, except for the very first train of the day (usually at 6:30 am). (Please note that this is based on trends and is not a guarantee.)
(These are second-class seats. There are also carpeted seats where you sit on the floor.)

◆◆◆Heartland Ferry◆◆◆
<Fares and charges>
*These are one-way fares for April-June 2016, as determined as of January 2016. Fares are subject to change due to fuel surcharges.
☆Wakkanai to Rebun Island (Kafuka Port)
First-class fare (Japanese-style room): 3,990 yen (plus 530 yen for first-class lounge seat reservation)　　
　Second-class fare: 2.260 yen
<Contact>
Phone: (Wakkanai Sales Office) 0162-23-8010
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (Open all year round)

1-4. Transportation within Rebun Island

Here's a guide to getting around from Kafuka Port. Regardless of your mode of transport, be sure to use the restroom before the ferry arrives (toilets on the island are limited, so this is surprisingly important!).

★Route bus
The bus service extends in three directions: to Sukoton on the north side of Rebun Island, to Shiretoko in the south towards Kinbai Valley, and to Motochi heading west. However, the number of buses is limited, so it can be difficult to use without checking the schedule carefully. If used wisely, it can be very effective. *Reservations are not possible.

★Rent a car
This is recommended for those who want to enjoy driving without worrying about the time. One of its attractions is that you can stay wherever you like for as long as you like.

However, it's not possible to drive along the entire coastline of Rebun Island. The route is more of a vertical traverse. The section between Uenai and Motochi is closed due to the risk of high waves and falling rocks.

But! The advantage of being able to visit key spots from Shiretoko in the south to Cape Sukoton at your own pace is significant. Stopping your car at a place that catches your eye and snapping that perfect photo is one of the great things about renting a car!

*Make sure to make a reservation (as early as possible during peak season!).

＜情報＞
*Approximately 1 yen for 3 hours (high price due to being in a special area). Reservation required.
Rebun Kanko Rent-a-Car / Phone: 0163-86-1360 (Minibus pick-up and drop-off service available)
Toyota Rent a Car / Phone: 0163-86-1117
Nippon Rent-A-Car / Phone: 0163-89-6677

★Regular sightseeing bus
Regular sightseeing buses are waiting in front of the port, and you have to board them within 5 to 10 minutes after disembarking from the ferry.

Since it's right in front of you after disembarking from the ferry, you can easily get to the bus without getting lost, so it's recommended for those who aren't confident with directions. However, since it's a group tour, you'll be working at the same pace as everyone else and there are time constraints, and the toilets at rest stops can get crowded, which are some of the downsides.

However! There's a popular tour that departs from and returns to Kafuka Port, visiting must-see spots on Rebun Island. Plus, it's a great way to make friends with other travelers who have come for the same purpose, so it's definitely worth taking advantage of.
(※The course that visits Momoiwa Rock, Sukoton Cape, etc. is popular☆)
*Make sure to make a reservation.

＜情報＞
Sightseeing bus tour (approximately 3-4 hours)
Phone: Soya Bus Co., Ltd. Rebun Sales Office 0163-86-1020

★Sightseeing taxi
Sightseeing taxis are a great option for those who dislike crowds or driving, as they take you to your desired destinations or recommended spots on a private basis. You can explore at your own pace, making it very convenient. However, there are very few of these taxis available, so be sure to do some research beforehand.

＜情報＞
Rebun Hire Phone: 0163-86-1320 (Kafuka)
Small: 7,000 yen per hour / Jumbo (up to 9 people): 10,000 yen per hour
Ishidou Hire Phone: 0163-86-1148
*Reservations required: Reservations can be made up to 2 months in advance.
Kaisei Taxi Phone: 0163-87-3222

2. Tourist attractions on Rebun Island

Rebun Island is a wonderful island that is adorned with flowers throughout during the season. I'd like to introduce you to not only the must-see spots, but also some hidden gems that you might not know about.

2-1.Alpine Botanical Garden

This botanical garden boasts magnificent alpine plants that bloom in every season. With approximately 2 plants of 30 different species, they bloom in succession throughout the year. A visitor center is also located on-site, displaying information about alpine plants, making it a must-see for flower lovers.

＜情報＞
Address: Kamitome, Funadomari Village, Rebun Town, Rebun District, Hokkaido
Phone: 0163-87-2941
Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Open every day from May to August, closed on Sundays in September)
Admission fee: 300 yen for adults, 150 yen for children (free from May 1st to 19th and throughout September)
Opening hours: Early May to late September (open every day during this period)

2-2. Cape Sukoton

This is the northernmost cape on Rebun Island, Japan's northernmost inhabited island (incidentally, Japan's northernmost point is Cape Soya in Wakkanai). Standing on this cape, overlooking the uninhabited island of Todojima, and feeling the wind, you're sure to be overwhelmed with an indescribable feeling of having reached the very edge of the world!

2-3. The Northern Canary Park is extremely famous!

The filming location that became famous in 2012 with the movie "Kita no Kanaria-tachi" (Northern Canaries), starring Sayuri Yoshinaga, has been transformed into a park. Since items used in the filming are on display, it's an easy-to-understand tourist spot for both those who have seen the movie and those who haven't.

The view from Canary Park on the south side of Rebun Island (including Rishiri Island's Land Park and Mount Rishiri) is absolutely stunning. You can see the different scenery of Rebun Island in winter and summer.

2-4. Agate raw material and Jizo rock at Motochi Coast

Agate is a striped stone often used in items such as ashtrays and clocks.

It seems that agate is considered one of the seven treasures in Buddhism. This is Agate Beach on Motochi Coast, where it is said that if you're lucky, you might find a raw agate stone.

There's a uniquely shaped rock called Jizo Rock in the area facing the sea. It looks like Jizo is holding his hands together! It's definitely worth a visit.

2-5.Momodai Nekodai Observation Deck

Located in the southern part of the island, the "Momodai Nekodai Observatory" is a scenic spot offering views of two strangely shaped and charming rocks.

This is Momoiwa (Peach Rock). It is characterized by its rounded shape, which is said to have been formed by magma erupting from the seabed.

This is Cat Rock. This adorable rock, shaped like a sitting cat, is far from the observation deck, so we recommend bringing a telephoto lens when taking pictures!

2-6. Sukai Cape

This is the place that everyone sees in photos and decides, "Okay! Let's go to Rebun Island!" The cove surrounded by curved cliffs and the contrast with the Rebun Island blue that can be seen on a clear day create a magnificent view.

(Let's take a little detour...)

2-7. Solar Eclipse Observation Memorial Monument

In 23, shortly after the end of the war, an event occurred that brought Rebun Island to the attention of the world.

Japanese and American scientists chose Rebun Island as the observation site for the annular solar eclipse. This was a very bright topic for Japan, which had been suffering both mentally and physically since the end of the war, and it is said that Japanese people were consistently involved in everything from preparation to observation.

To commemorate this great achievement, a monument was initially erected in a different location, but due to unfortunate circumstances that hindered construction, it was moved in 15 to the grounds of Itsukushima Shrine in the Kafuka district. Now, alongside the new monument, which is designed to resemble a solar eclipse, we can enjoy the magnificent view of Mount Rishiri every day.

Flowers are lovely, but it's also wonderful to visit the historical sites that Japan has left behind in these remote regions.

2-8. Sea Urchin Shucking Experience Center

When it comes to food on Rebun Island, sea urchin is the obvious choice! But for those who want more than just eating, we recommend this.

At the sea urchin shucking center, you can actually experience shucking sea urchins. The deliciousness of sea urchins lies in their spines! Let's experience firsthand that even beautiful things have spines. Seeing the golden-colored sea urchins after shucking them makes them taste even better!

By the way, the cost is 500 yen per piece. Considering you get to eat freshly shucked, top-quality sea urchin, it's not expensive at all!

<Sea Urchin Shucking Experience Center>
Address: Kitousu, Kafuka Village, Rebun Town
Phone: 0163-87-2506
Business hours: April to September, approximately 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (please check in advance).

2-9. Usuyuki no Yu

Rebun Island boasts one of the finest natural hot springs, with water flowing directly from the source. The colorless, transparent water is available in a jacuzzi and private baths. Relax and warm your tired body after a trek. The view of Mount Rishiri from both the indoor and outdoor baths is breathtaking.

<Information about Usuyuki no Yu hot spring on Rebun Island>
Address: 961-1 Besh, Kafuka Village, Rebun Town
Phone: 0163-86-2345
Time: 12:22-XNUMX:XNUMX
Price: ¥600

3. Recommended Model Courses

Driving around Rebun Island can be surprisingly difficult to plan. So, how about this route that allows you to traverse the island efficiently?

We'll start in the south and make stops at key locations all the way to the north.

★Kafuka Port ⇒ Kita no Canaria Park (opens at 9:00, so be mindful of the time) ⇒ Alpine Botanical Garden ⇒ Sumikai Cape ⇒ Sukoton Cape ⇒ Usuyuki no Yu hot spring or a meal near the port.
*If you have time along the way, we also recommend stopping by Agate Beach after Canary Park, where you can find raw agate stones.
This itinerary covers a distance of approximately 70km and takes about 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours to travel. Including sightseeing time, the total trip will be approximately 3 to 4 hours.

4. Trekking on Rebun Island

There are six trekking routes on Rebun Island. The route that includes Momoiwa Observatory is the most popular. This time, I'd like to introduce three routes that you should definitely check out when you visit Rebun Island.

4-1. Momoiwa Observatory Course: A course that even beginners can enjoy with peace of mind.

This course features moderate elevation changes, allowing you to enjoy the plants along the way. It's primarily an aerobic exercise, so you can expect great results in shaping up. Enjoy a pleasant stroll surrounded by flowers and greenery.

4-2. A tour of capes that highlight key points

Photo by (c)Tomo.Yun http://www.yunphoto.net
We'll start from Sukoton Cape and go to Hamanaka via Sumikai Cape.

The only way to visit Gorota Point is on foot, so it's a must-see for anyone who wants to see beautiful scenery.

4-3. Calling all veterans and challengers! 8-hour intensive course

This is a long course starting from Cape Sukoton and ending at the junction of the Rebun Forest Road. You can walk through terrain including coastal areas and hilly regions.

5. Must-try foods on Rebun Island!

Item 1: Sea urchin – a must-try before you leave.

The must-try dish on Rebun Island is definitely sea urchin. So, let me introduce you to a rice bowl dish featuring nothing but sea urchin.

A must-try on Rebun Island is the "Sake Jar Sea Urchin Rice Bowl."

This restaurant offers not only a regular-sized sea urchin rice bowl, but also a "Jumbo Sea Urchin Rice Bowl" for a truly satisfying portion. They even have a "Sea Urchin Rice Bowl" with a whole kilogram of sea urchin on top! (Price: 30,000 yen)

The "uni-giri," a rice ball topped with a cute sea urchin, is also delicious.
<Sake pot>
Address: In front of the Kafuka Community Center, Rebun Town
Phone: 0163-86-1894
Business hours: 11:4 AM to 9:14 PM from late April to September

2. It's really good! "Hokke no Chanchan-yaki"

Photo by (c)Tomo.Yun http://www.yunphoto.net
Is Rebun Island only about sea urchins? No, no, it's not just about sea urchins.

Surprisingly little known is Hokke no Chanchan-yaki, which is made with thick, meaty Atka mackerel caught off Rebun Island, grilled over a hearth with fresh green onions and a secret sauce. The basic way to eat it is to mix it all together, starting from the tail, and as expected from the restaurant that originated Hokke no Chanchan-yaki, it's incredibly delicious. Please give it a try!
<Robata Chidori>
Address: Kafuka, Kafuka Village, Rebun Town
Phone: 0163-86-2130
Business Hours: Irregular (Please be sure to check before you go!)

　　　

6. Things to prepare when going to Rebun Island

Rebun Island is even further north than Hokkaido. Even though it's still Japan, the climate is completely different.
Many people go there for trekking, so some preparation is necessary. Therefore, I've put together a brief summary of the temperature, clothing, and equipment needed!

6-1. About temperature

The temperature is definitely that of a northern region. I wonder how cold it will be?

That's right, it's surprisingly cool even in summer. So, I've compiled a summary of the year-round temperature difference between Tokyo and Rebun Island.

As you can see from this diagram, the temperature difference between Tokyo and Rebun Island can be as much as 10 degrees Celsius depending on the season.

Wind can change the perceived temperature, so there will likely be days when it feels cold. Please refer to the diagram above depending on the season you are going and prepare accordingly.

6-2. Regarding clothing

Rebun Island is cool enough in the summer that you don't need air conditioning, but for trekking, it's best to wear long sleeves and long pants. Avoid jeans and wear comfortable, stretchy clothing that allows for easy movement.

Also, I recommend wearing a short-sleeved T-shirt as an undershirt under a long-sleeved shirt so you can easily take it off when you get hot from moving around.

6-3. Equipment

You'll want to be prepared with equipment similar to what you'd use for a light mountain climb. Of course, rain is possible due to changing weather, so a raincoat and towel are essential to prepare for sudden downpours. For footwear, non-slip sneakers or hiking boots are preferable. Make sure you're comfortable climbing even on uneven terrain.

Another thing that's surprisingly easy to forget is "hydration." Even though it's cool, it's still "summer." And since you're exercising, frequent breaks and staying hydrated are absolutely essential.

(The hill has no shade, so it gets hot on sunny days.)

6-4. Others

Another item that will make your visit to Rebun Island even more enjoyable is the "Rebun Island Specialist Flower Book."

Rebun Island is home to many rare alpine plants, including some that only grow and bloom there. Trekking while looking up flowers in a flower guide is also a lot of fun. If that sounds a bit too much trouble, you can of course just take pictures of the flowers that catch your eye and look them up when you get home.

(View of Mount Rishiri from Momoiwa)

Summary

While it's possible to visit Rebun Island as a day trip in about half a day if you're smart and quick, it's a place you should definitely try to fully experience by staying for one night, or even two nights if you're a trekking or flower lover. Because it's a place you can't visit often and is only accessible during certain seasons, you'll want to make the most of your time there compared to your usual trips.
This summer, be sure to visit Rebun Island and enjoy its flower fields and the island's beauty!

・The complete guide to Rishiri Island's must-see attractions! [Spring, Summer, and Autumn Edition]
・Visit Wakkanai, Japan's northernmost city! Enjoy history and nature through sightseeing.
Looking for the perfect morning cafe experience in the northernmost part of Japan? We recommend Wakkanai's Morning Cafe Nishikaigan 909!

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