Explera DMC Japan sells Rishiri and Rebun as a summer extension from Wakkanai, built around Rebun's wild flowers and Rishiri's mountain. Ferries run from Wakkanai, and the operator, Heartland Ferry, plans to bring a new ship onto the route in early spring 2027. Rooms and ferry space are limited, so we book both early.
Rishiri and Rebun lie off Hokkaido's northern tip and form part of Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park, designated in 1974. Rishiri is almost entirely one mountain, Mount Rishiri, rising out of the sea. Rebun is lower and windswept, and is known for the alpine flowers that cover its hills in early summer.
What is changing on the ferry?
On 26 February 2026, Heartland Ferry announced that it had decided to build a new ship for the Wakkanai, Rishiri and Rebun routes, aiming to put it into service in early spring 2027. It replaces Boreas Soya, in service since August 2003, and is the same type as the Amapola Soya, with a children's room and new private cabins. Timetables change by season, so we confirm sailings for each date.
How do we plan the islands for groups?
- Season. The islands are an early-summer and summer product, when the flowers are out and the walking trails are open. Winter services are reduced.
- Walking. Rebun's flower trails range from short walks to full-day hikes; we match the route to the group.
- Overnight stays. Island inns are small. We book rooms early and spread larger groups across two inns if needed.
- Weather. Fog and wind can stop ferries, so we keep a buffer day before flights home from Wakkanai.
For more of the region, see our Hokkaido group tours guide, our wildlife guide and our guide to Japan's other islands.
Sources: Heartland Ferry announcement, 26 February 2026 (Japanese PDF) and JNTO National Parks of Japan: Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu.
FAQ
How do groups get to Rishiri and Rebun? By ferry from Wakkanai, at the northern tip of Hokkaido. Heartland Ferry runs the routes between Wakkanai and both islands, and between the two islands.
When is the best time to visit Rishiri and Rebun? Early summer and summer, when Rebun's alpine flowers bloom and the trails are open. Services are reduced in winter.
Is there a new ferry for the islands? Heartland Ferry plans to bring a new ship into service in early spring 2027, replacing Boreas Soya.
How many days do Rishiri and Rebun need? We suggest two nights, one on each island, with a buffer day before the flight home from Wakkanai in case fog or wind stops the ferries.
Planning northern Hokkaido for your clients? Write to b2b@explera.jp, message the trade desk on WhatsApp at +66 93 656 8090, or register on the B2B portal. Proposals within 24 hours. IATA TIDS 96215733, ASTA member 900408341.
