Rishiri and Rebun — two remote volcanic islands rising from the Sea of Japan off northwestern Hokkaido — offer an extraordinary combination of alpine tundra birds, seabird colonies, and migrating raptors in a wild and beautiful setting. The dramatic silhouette of Mt. Rishiri (Rishiri Fuji) forms a backdrop to some of Japan’s most rewarding offshore birding.
Star Birds
Rhinoceros Auklet
Thousands of Rhinoceros Auklets breed on rocky slopes of Rishiri Island, returning to their burrows at dusk in spectacular feeding flights from the sea. Evening gatherings offshore create memorable spectacles from late spring through summer.
Ancient Murrelet
Ancient Murrelets and other alcids congregate offshore during spring migration. Spectacled Guillemots and Black-tailed Gulls breed on coastal cliffs. Pelagic boat trips around the islands give excellent seabird viewing.
Alpine Birds
Japanese Rock Ptarmigan inhabit the high alpine zone on Mt. Rishiri. Japanese Accentor, Alpine Accentor, and Snow Bunting are found on the mountain slopes in season. Rough-legged Buzzards and Peregrine Falcons hunt the upland terrain.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (May-Jun): Peak migration; seabirds arriving to breed
- Summer (Jul-Aug): Seabird colonies active; wildflower meadows in full bloom
- Autumn (Sep-Oct): Raptor migration; shorebirds on rocky beaches
Travel Tips
Ferry services run from Wakkanai (Hokkaido) to both islands (about 2 hours). Wakkanai is served by JR Limited Express from Sapporo (about 5 hours). Accommodation on both islands is limited — advance booking is essential in summer. Guided boat trips around Rishiri’s coast are excellent for seabirds and marine mammals.
