Discover Oshidomari

From the 93-meter-high summit of Cape Peshi, enjoy a 360-degree panorama of Rebun Island, Hokkaido’s main island, and Mount Rishiri. The climb takes about 20 minutes. This viewpoint provides a striking introduction to Oshidomari, with the island, main island, and mountain all in view. For a family outing, it offers a clear shared focus; the time estimate also helps you plan the summit as one part of your day. The view is quite different from the forest and pond experiences that Oshidomari also offers.

Experience the Pond and Forest

At Himenuma, the water takes center stage: the pond, about 1 km long, lies in a lush old-growth forest. It was formed around 1920 by the joining of natural springs. Both the forest landscape and its formation from springs are part of this place’s story. Himenuma is about a 10-minute drive from Oshidomari Ferry Terminal. If you plan to arrive via this terminal, the drive to the pond provides a concrete reference point for an outing. Himenuma thus complements the viewpoint at Cape Peshi with a different natural setting.

The History Forest Trail offers another way to experience nature. This constructed forest path is close to Rishiri Fuji Onsen; along the trail, you can hear birdsong and enjoy the natural surroundings. While Cape Peshi stands out for its panoramic views, here the focus is on the forest setting and birdsong. Families can include these different experiences in their vacation plans: one day taking in views of islands and the mountain, another listening and observing along a constructed forest path.

On the Mount Rishiri Hiking Trail

Mount Rishiri offers another connection to hiking: Kanro Sensui is near the third station of the Oshidomari hiking trail. The spring can be reached via this trail in about a 20-minute walk from Rishiri Hokuroku Campground. Its proximity to the third station places Kanro Sensui along the trail; the walking time from the campground provides another concrete point of reference. The mountain trail can therefore be considered a distinct highlight alongside the forest trail and viewpoint. The estimate of about a 20-minute walk refers to the route from the campground via the Oshidomari hiking trail.

Getting to Oshidomari and Finding a Vacation Rental

The ferry from Wakkanai Ferry Terminal to Oshidomari on Rishiri Island takes 100 minutes. Depending on the season, only four ferries run each day. Be sure to factor both the crossing and the seasonal number of services into your travel plans. When looking for a vacation rental in Oshidomari, you could start by considering what kind of outing matters most to you: a panorama from the summit, a pond in an old-growth forest, or a mountain hiking trail. The different nature experiences give you a concrete framework for your decision without limiting Oshidomari to just one type of outing. Choose your accommodation based on your own priorities and how you plan to get there.

More places to discover: Kenbuchi, Sōunkyō, Urakawa, Chitose, Higashikagura, Toyotomi, Hakodate, Kamishihoro.

For the broader travel overview: Hokkaido.