▷ What This Guide Will Help You With
Many travelers dream of visiting Rishiri Island, a volcanic island off the northern coast of Hokkaido known for its serene landscapes and Mt. Rishiri’s iconic peak.
However, figuring out how to get there from Wakkanai (the nearest city on mainland Hokkaido) can be confusing—especially for first-time visitors or non-Japanese speakers.
This article answers common questions such as:
- How long is the ferry ride?
- How many trips per day are there?
- What’s the difference between seat classes?
- What happens if ferries get canceled due to weather?
Let’s break it down.
- 🚢 Quick Summary – Ferry Options from Wakkanai to Rishiri Island
- 🛳 Step-by-Step: Getting to Rishiri by Ferry
- ✅ 1. Reach Wakkanai Port Ferry Terminal
- ✅ 2. Choose Your Ferry and Seat Type
- ✅ 3. Check Ferry Schedule (Seasonal!)
- ✅ 4. Arrive Early and Buy Your Ticket
- ✅ 5. Arrival at Rishiri (Oshidomari Port)
- 📖 Real Traveler Experiences
- 🗺 Seasonal Considerations
- 💬 Reflection: Why Take the Ferry?
- 🎯 Final Tips Before You Go
- 🔗 References & Sources
🚢 Quick Summary – Ferry Options from Wakkanai to Rishiri Island
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Operator | Heartland Ferry |
| Departure Ports | Wakkanai ⇄ Oshidomari Port (Rishiri) |
| Duration | ~1 hour 40 minutes |
| Frequencies (Summer) | 2–4 round trips/day |
| Classes | Economy, Business, First Class, Japanese-Style Room |
| Fare (Economy) | ¥2,990 one-way (adult) |
| Booking | Online or in-person (no English support at kiosk) |
🛳 Step-by-Step: Getting to Rishiri by Ferry
✅ 1. Reach Wakkanai Port Ferry Terminal
- If you’re starting in Sapporo or Asahikawa, you can take:
- JR Limited Express Soya (Sapporo → Wakkanai, ~5.5 hrs)
- Highway Bus “Wakkanai-go” (overnight, ~6.5 hrs)
- Flight from New Chitose Airport (~55 min)
🧭 The ferry terminal is about 10–15 minutes on foot from Wakkanai Station.
✅ 2. Choose Your Ferry and Seat Type
Ferry Classes (One-way fare from Wakkanai → Rishiri):
| Class | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Economy (2nd Class) | ¥2,990 | Open-plan carpet seating (may be crowded) |
| Business / 1st Class | ¥4,700–¥5,400 | Reserved seats or Japanese-style private areas |
| Special Cabin | ¥7,000+ | Semi-private or VIP rooms with beds (seasonal) |
💺 If you want comfort and space, upgrade is worth it in peak season (June–Aug).
✅ 3. Check Ferry Schedule (Seasonal!)
- Heartland Ferry runs more frequent trips in summer (June–September): up to 4 round-trips per day.
- Off-season: Only 1–2 round-trips.
- Schedule & status: Heartland Ferry Timetable (JP)
⚠️ Ferries may be canceled in bad weather. Always check the live status 24 hours before your trip.
✅ 4. Arrive Early and Buy Your Ticket
- No English at kiosks—write down destination in Japanese:
- 利尻島（鴛泊港）= Rishiri Island (Oshidomari Port)
- Accepted: cash, credit cards (major), IC cards rarely work
- Be at the terminal at least 30–45 minutes early
✅ 5. Arrival at Rishiri (Oshidomari Port)
- The port is the main gateway to:
- Mt. Rishiri hiking base
- Island loop buses / taxis
- Bicycle rentals and hotels
📖 Real Traveler Experiences
▶ Story 1: Ferry Cancellation Due to Fog
A Japanese traveler reported that their return flight from Rishiri was canceled due to heavy fog.
To avoid being stranded, they changed plans to take the ferry back to Wakkanai, which luckily still operated.
They took the earliest morning ferry to ensure arrival before dark.
Lesson: Always check both ferry and flight conditions, especially in June–July. Island weather can be unpredictable even on sunny days.
▶ Story 2: The Economy Class “Culture Shock”
One blogger who took the Economy class was surprised by the seating:
- No chairs—just a large shared carpeted floor.
- Everyone takes off their shoes and sits or lies down.
- Crowded during peak summer with tourists, school groups, and hikers.
Tip: If you’re unfamiliar with Japanese-style ferry seating, consider upgrading to a reserved seat or business class for comfort.
🗺 Seasonal Considerations
| Season | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (April–May) | Fewer tourists, crisp air | Unpredictable weather, fewer ferries |
| Summer (June–Aug) | Best weather, most ferries | Very crowded, expensive lodging |
| Autumn (Sept–Oct) | Peaceful, clear skies | Cooler winds, reduced schedules |
| Winter (Nov–Mar) | Cheapest, tranquil | Harsh cold, limited access, rough seas ❄️ |
🧳 Winter ferry service is drastically reduced. If you’re traveling in off-season, book everything well in advance and plan for delays.
💬 Reflection: Why Take the Ferry?
While flights to Rishiri exist, taking the ferry offers a deeper sensory experience:
- Watching the island’s outline slowly emerge from the sea
- Feeling the transition between the mainland and remote island life
- Interacting with locals, hikers, and even fishermen onboard
For some, the ferry becomes more than just transportation—it’s part of the adventure itself.
That said, the lack of English support, schedule inflexibility, and potential cancellations mean this route is best for travelers who are:
- Flexible with timing
- Comfortable navigating public transit in Japan
- Open to “slow travel” principles
🎯 Final Tips Before You Go
- Print the ferry schedule in advance (in Japanese and English).
- Avoid tight schedules—give yourself a full day buffer.
- Upgrade your seat if you prefer privacy or chairs.
- Book accommodation on Rishiri early in summer.
- Don’t rely on ferries running “no matter what”—have a backup plan.
