Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park

Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park

Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park is a unique coastal and island national park in northern Japan, known for alpine wildflowers, volcanic peaks, coastal wetlands, and vibrant marine ecosystems.

29,700 acres (approx. 12,000 hectares)
Acres Protected
30+
Miles of Trails
Approximately 200,000
Annual Visitors
1974
Year Established

About Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park

Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park
 

Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park, established in 1974, spans a diverse natural region in northern Hokkaido, Japan. The park includes three distinct areas: the volcanic island Rishiri, the flower-rich island Rebun, and the vast Sarobetsu moorland on the mainland. Mt. Rishiri, an extinct stratovolcano rising to 1,721 meters, dominates the seascape and offers challenging hikes with panoramic views of the Sea of Japan and neighboring islands. Rebun Island is renowned for its alpine flora, especially during summer when rare flowers carpet the rocky terrain, attracting botanists and nature enthusiasts. The Sarobetsu Plain features one of Japan's largest coastal moorlands and peat bogs, providing critical habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. Visitors engage in hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and exploring scenic coastal routes. The park also emphasizes cultural connections through diffusion of Ainu heritage and traditional fishing villages. Diverse ecosystems ranging from alpine, coastal, to wetland environments make it an ecological treasure. The park’s combination of rugged volcanoes, delicate flower fields, and expansive marshlands offers distinctive seasonal experiences, with spring blooms, summer hikes, and fall foliage drawing visitors. Its remote location and protected status make it a refuge for conservation, scientific research, and outdoor recreation.

Highlights

Highlight

Climb Mt. Rishiri for panoramic views of the Sea of Japan and neighboring Rebun Island

Highlight

Walk through expansive alpine flower fields on Rebun Island, showcasing rare species

Highlight

Explore the Sarobetsu Plain, one of Japan's largest coastal moorlands with rich birdlife

Highlight

Hike the coastal cliffs and beaches connecting the islands and mainland for stunning seascapes

Notable Natural Features

Mt. Rishiri

An extinct stratovolcano rising 1,721 meters above sea level, offering challenging hikes and spectacular views over the island and ocean.

Rebun Island Alpine Flowers

A fragile ecosystem featuring over 300 species of alpine plants, many endemic, that bloom brightly during summer months.

Sarobetsu Plain

A vast coastal wetland and peat bog area critical for migratory birds, rare plants, and supporting biodiversity.