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Rishiri Island

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Rishiri Island Weather, Climate and Best Time to Visit

Data source：Meteostat
Update date：2025-09

Rishiri Island year round climate

  • Spring (March–May): Average -0.2–8.7°C, cold and dry climate, occasional snowfall. Common activities: Sightseeing, hiking (dress warmly). Recommended clothing: Thick coat, hat, scarf, gloves.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 13.4–20.0°C, cool climate, less rainfall. Common activities: Mountain climbing, viewing Rishiri Fuji, seaside recreation. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved clothing.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 18.4–5.5°C, comfortable climate, low rainfall. Common activities: Viewing autumn leaves, seaside walks. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt.
  • Winter (December–February): Average -2.8–-2.2°C, cold and dry climate, little snowfall. Common activities: Skiing (depending on snow conditions), enjoying snow scenery. Recommended clothing: Heavy warm clothing, waterproof jacket, snow boots.

Rishiri Island climatological average

Annual average temperature: approx. 8.1°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 49 mm / Summer humidity: 60%–70% / Rainiest month: August

Rishiri Island monthly average temperature and precipitation

Month
Air temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
January
-2.3°C
6.8
February
-2.8°C
2.4
March
-0.2°C
2.2
April
6.1°C
1.2
May
8.7°C
4.8
June
13.4°C
4.3
July
18.3°C
5.4
August
20°C
7.5
September
18.4°C
2.8
October
13.3°C
4
November
5.5°C
4.8
December
-2.2°C
3.7

Rishiri Island weather for the next seven days

3/3
Tuesday
Blowing snow
1.6°C/-0.3°C
3/4
Wednesday
Blowing snow
1.3°C/0.1°C
3/5
Thursday
Patchy rain nearby
1.7°C/0.2°C
3/6
Friday
Patchy rain nearby
2.7°C/0.4°C
3/7
Saturday
Patchy rain nearby
2°C/1.1°C
3/8
Sunday
Patchy rain nearby
1.8°C/1°C
3/9
Monday
Blizzard
0.5°C/0.2°C

Rishiri Island Frequently Asked Questions and Useful Information for Travel

Is Rishiri Island worth visiting?

Rishiri Island is definitely worth visiting, even if you don't plan to climb Mt. Rishiri. The island offers numerous treasures to uncover as you explore its coastline. A personal favorite is a small uni don shop on Cape Senhoshi on the southern coast, but you are sure to discover many of your own unique finds.

How do I get to Rishiri Island?

To reach Rishiri Island, you can take a flight or ferry to Wakkanai, and then board a Heart Land Ferry to Rishiri Island. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Rishiri Airport from Sapporo, though flights are limited and often seasonal. The ferry from Wakkanai to Rishiri's Oshidomari Port is generally the most popular and convenient option. From Wakkanai Airport, take a bus to Wakkanai Port Ferry Terminal, which is also accessible from Wakkanai Station. The ferry ride to Oshidomari Port on Rishiri Island takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes to 1 hour and 50 minutes.

What is Rishiri Island known for?

Rishiri Island is particularly famous for its stunning natural beauty, including the iconic view of Mount Rishiri with its reflection in the surrounding ponds. Small, picturesque fishing villages dot the island's coast. It is also renowned for its exceptionally fresh sea urchins (uni) and high-quality konbu seaweed.

Are there hotels on Rishiri Island?

Yes, there are accommodation options available on Rishiri Island. For those seeking hotels in the central area, consider Tanakaya Hinageshikan or Rishiri Marine Hotel. Travelers have praised Tanakaya Hinageshikan for its excellent location, as well as amenities like its restaurant, free parking, and complimentary roundtrip airport shuttle.

What are some must-try foods on Rishiri Island?

Rishiri Island is a culinary paradise, especially for seafood lovers. The island is most famous for its incredibly fresh sea urchin (uni), often served as 'uni don' (sea urchin over rice), which is a local specialty. Another renowned product is Rishiri konbu, a type of kelp highly prized for its umami flavor, used in dashi broth and other dishes.