Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park

Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu Overview

Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park, located in the northernmost part of Japan’s Hokkaido region, encompasses a stunning expanse of 106 square miles (274 square kilometers). This park is named after its three distinct areas: Rishiri Island, Rebun Island, and the Sarobetsu Plain. Positioned near the Sea of Japan, it offers a unique blend of alpine, coastal, and wetland landscapes. The park’s terrain is as diverse as it is breathtaking, from the towering volcanic peak of Mount Rishiri, often called “Rishiri Fuji” for its resemblance to Mount Fuji, to the coastal cliffs and meadows of Rebun Island, often blanketed with colorful alpine flowers. The Sarobetsu Plain, a vast wetland, features expansive peat bogs and serves as a vital ecological area.

The vegetation within the park is equally diverse and reflects the area’s unique climates and elevations. Rishiri Island is home to dense forests of Sakhalin spruce and Japanese alder, while Rebun Island is renowned for its rare alpine flora, including Rebun lady’s slipper and Rebun atsumoriso orchids. The Sarobetsu Plain supports vast wetlands with plants such as cotton grass and bog rosemary. Together, these elements create a botanical wonderland that changes dramatically with the seasons, offering visitors vibrant blooms in summer and serene, snow-covered landscapes in winter.

Wildlife enthusiasts will find Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park to be a haven. The Sarobetsu Plain is an essential stopover for migratory birds, including species such as the whooper swan and bean goose. Other avian species, like the rare Steller’s sea eagle, can also be observed in the area. Mammals include the Ezo deer and red fox, both iconic species of Hokkaido. The islands and surrounding waters are home to seals and sea otters, while the coastal zones provide opportunities to spot various marine birds.

The park’s highlights include climbing Mount Rishiri, a challenging yet rewarding activity offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the sea. The alpine flower meadows on Rebun Island are particularly famous, drawing botanists and nature lovers alike. In the Sarobetsu Plain, visitors can enjoy boardwalk trails that allow close-up exploration of the wetlands without disturbing the delicate ecosystem. The park is also a prime spot for birdwatching and offers excellent opportunities for photography, particularly during the spring and summer flower seasons.

Visitors can engage with the park through a variety of activities, such as hiking, birdwatching, and cycling. The islands are accessible by ferry, making the journey part of the experience. Guided tours are available, particularly for the flower meadows and wetland areas, providing deeper insights into the park’s ecology and conservation efforts.

Conservation is a key focus for the park’s management, as preserving its unique ecosystems requires constant vigilance. Challenges include invasive species management, climate change impacts, and balancing tourism with environmental protection. However, the park has had significant successes, such as the restoration of native plant habitats on Rebun Island and the establishment of eco-friendly tourism practices to minimize human impact. These initiatives ensure that the park remains a sanctuary for its extraordinary flora and fauna while offering unforgettable experiences to visitors.

Park Map

Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

The park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the rich avian diversity of northern Japan. The unique habitats of Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park provide sanctuary for many rare and fascinating bird species.

Red-Crowned Crane (Grus japonensis)
These iconic birds, known for their elegant courtship dances, are often seen in the wetlands and marshes of Sarobetsu, symbolizing longevity and good fortune.

Spectacled Guillemot (Cepphus carbo)
This seabird is commonly found along the rocky coastal areas of Rebun Island, distinguished by its black plumage and bright red legs.

Steller’s Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus)
A majestic raptor with striking black and white plumage, it winters in the park, making it a highlight for bird watchers during the colder months.

Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
These large, graceful swans are a common sight in the park’s wetlands during migration periods, known for their trumpet-like calls.

Hazel Grouse (Tetrastes bonasia)
A small, elusive bird of the forest, it is known for its cryptic plumage that blends seamlessly into the dense vegetation.

Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker (Yungipicus kizuki)
This tiny woodpecker is frequently seen and heard in the park’s forests, tapping away at tree trunks in search of insects.

Rhinoceros Auklet (Cerorhinca monocerata)
This seabird, part of the puffin family, is found in the coastal areas, nesting in burrows on cliffs and islands.

Eurasian Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes)
One of the smallest birds in the park, its loud and melodious song can often be heard in the dense forests and shrublands.

Blakiston’s Fish Owl (Ketupa blakistoni)
This rare and endangered owl is one of the largest in the world and occasionally found in the park, especially near streams and rivers.

Siberian Rubythroat (Calliope calliope)
A vibrantly colored migratory bird, it is often seen flitting through the park’s shrubs and bushes during the summer months.

Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park, located in the northernmost region of Japan, is celebrated for its diverse ecosystems, from alpine meadows to coastal environments. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, reflecting the unique biodiversity of this region. Below are some of the popular species found in the park.

Sakhalin Fir (Abies sachalinensis)
This coniferous tree dominates the forests of the region, thriving in the cold, subarctic climate. Its distinct shape and resilience make it a key feature of the park’s landscape.

Hokkaido Sika Deer (Cervus nippon yesoensis)
A subspecies of the sika deer, these animals are commonly seen grazing in the meadows and forests. Their adaptability and large population make them a significant part of the park’s ecosystem.

Ezo Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes schrencki)
This subspecies of red fox is known for its striking reddish fur and bushy tail. The foxes are often spotted near trails and are iconic symbols of Hokkaido wildlife.

Ezo Brown Bear (Ursus arctos yesoensis)
One of the largest land mammals in Japan, the Ezo brown bear roams the park’s wilderness. Though sightings are rare, these bears play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance.

Alpine Azalea (Loiseleuria procumbens)
A small, creeping shrub with vibrant pink flowers, this plant is a signature species in the alpine meadows of Mount Rishiri and Rebun Island.

Rebun Lady’s Slipper Orchid (Cypripedium macranthos var. rebunense)
This rare and delicate orchid is found only on Rebun Island, making it a treasured symbol of the park’s botanical richness.

Ezo Salamander (Hynobius retardatus)
This amphibian is commonly found in the park’s wetlands and streams. It thrives in the cold climate and is an important indicator of environmental health.

Hare’s-Tail Cottongrass (Eriophorum vaginatum)
This grass-like plant with fluffy white seed heads grows in the Sarobetsu wetlands, adding a unique beauty to the marshy landscape.

Northern Fur Seal (Callorhinus ursinus)
Occasionally spotted along the park’s coastal areas, this marine mammal is a key species in the surrounding waters and represents the connection between land and sea ecosystems.

Ezo Flying Squirrel (Pteromys volans orii)
This nocturnal creature is known for its ability to glide between trees, making it an intriguing inhabitant of the park’s forests.