Breathtaking Floating Island Procession Displaying Spectacular Alpine Scenery Coastwards in Japan
Nestled off the northern tip of Hokkaido, Rebun Island is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and hikers seeking a unique and authentic Japanese experience. Known as Japan's "Floating Island of Flowers," Rebun Island boasts seven well-maintained hiking trails that offer spectacular coastal and alpine scenery combined with vibrant native flora.
Key highlights include the Momoiwa Course, a popular three-hour moderate trail starting near the ferry port. Hikers enjoy sweeping views from the Momoiwa observatory and the Motochi lighthouse on the southern tip of the island. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Eight-hour Course and Cape Tour Course, starting from the northern tip of the island, offer extensive exploration opportunities and allow visitors to discover remote parts of the island's natural beauty.
The gentler Lake Kushu Course, a trail circling a serene lake in under two hours, is perfect for a relaxed nature walk. Along these trails in spring and summer, hikers will see fields of native edelweiss (Leontopodium discolor), lady slipper orchids, Asian skunk cabbage, and many other unique plant species flourishing in the island’s coastal breeze and alpine conditions. The northern parts of Rebun are particularly rich in wildflowers, making it an exceptional destination for botanical enthusiasts and photographers.
Visitors wanting a deeper experience can opt for guided hikes that can reveal secret spots not found on regular trails and offer educational insights into the island's unique flora. These guided tours are an excellent way to immerse oneself in the island's natural beauty and learn about its rare and unique alpine species.
Rebun Island is walkable and bike-friendly, with bike rentals and sightseeing buses available. To reach Rebun Island, visitors can fly or take a train to Wakkanai, Hokkaido's northern hub, and then take a ferry. A shorter ferry from neighboring Rishiri Island is also an option, with a domestic airport for flights from the main island.
For an authentic experience, consider staying in a local inn along the coast to meet locals and enjoy fresh seafood. Robata Chidori, an island staple near the port of Rebun, serves gourmet sea urchin and mackerel dishes since the 1940s.
In summary, the best hiking trails on Rebun Island in spring and summer are the Momoiwa Course for moderate coastal views, the longer Eight-hour and Cape Tour Courses for extensive exploration, and the easy Lake Kushu Course for a gentle lakeside walk, all amidst spectacular wildflower displays and well-marked paths. Rebun Island is a must-visit destination for nature lovers seeking a unique and unforgettable Japanese experience.
Traveling to Rebun Island, a hidden gem nestled off Hokkaido's northern tip, offers nature enthusiasts an authentic Japanese experience, especially for those who appreciate flower-filled landscapes. To fully immerse oneself in the island's natural beauty and discover its secret spots, consider opting for guided hikes that offer educational insights into the island's unique flora, with travel guides helping to uncover these hidden gems as part of a lifestyle enriching travel itinerary.
