Mount Rishiri: Observation deck at the 5th station of the hiking trail

Kutsugata Mikaeri Observatory

To get to Mikaeri Observatory, take the Mount Rishiri-Kutsugata hiking route (in front of Rishiri Town Hall).
The parking lot at the fifth station splits into two paths, with one leading to the hiking trail and the other to Mikaeri Observatory.

The road to the parking lot is narrow and overgrown with trees, and not particularly well maintained.

Tourist buses often pass through the narrow path, which is only wide enough for one car, so please be careful if you're traveling by car or bicycle.

The walk from the parking lot to the observation deck is approximately 15 minutes.

You'll climb 100 steps.

The trail is quite steep, so it's a great workout.

Tourist buses mainly travel to Oshidomari, where the ferry terminal connecting Wakkanai and Rishiri is located, making the Kutsugata area a hidden gem that rarely sees visitors.

If you're planning a visit to the island, be sure to pack some rice balls and water and visit Mikaeri Observatory.
During the peak summer months on Rishiri Island, temperatures can feel a little hot at 28°C, but the humidity is low and it's dry.

However, the observation deck is surrounded by forest, and the air is clear and the breeze is refreshingly cool. Plus, the food tastes amazing after a light sweat.

[Address] Kutsugata, Rishiri-cho, Rishiri-gun, Hokkaido
[Access] Approximately 10 minutes by car from Kutsugata Port
[Parking] Available
[Restrooms] Available
[Opening Period] Late April to Mid-October

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