Rishiri Airport

Rishiri Airport (RIS) is the air gateway to the picturesque volcanic island of Rishiri, nestled in the Sea of Japan. For travellers seeking to witness untouched nature and the famous Mount Rishiri-Fuji, this small airport serves as the starting point for an unforgettable adventure. Despite its modest size, it plays a key role in the region's transport system, connecting the remote island with the rest of Japan. Upon landing here, you immediately feel a peaceful atmosphere and see breathtaking landscapes that set the tone for your entire journey.

Below is the essential information about the airport to help you plan your trip.

The main advantage of Rishiri Airport is its unique location. Even during landing and from the runway, stunning views of the conical peak of Mount Rishiri open up, making both arrival and departure particularly impressive. Being a small regional airport, it offers passengers quick and hassle-free service: flight check-in and baggage claim take place without long waits. Basic amenities are available in the terminal building, including car rental counters, allowing tourists to immediately set off to explore the natural beauties of the island and the Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park. The airport mainly serves flights from Sapporo, being the fastest way to reach this remote corner of Hokkaido.

• Official Website: The most up-to-date information on airport operations, flight schedules, and services is best checked on the official website: www.rishiri-airport.jp. Please note that the site may only be available in Japanese.
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can call: +81 163 82 12 69. Please bear in mind that staff may speak primarily Japanese.
• Airport Address: Oshidomari, Rishiri-cho, Rishiri-gun, Hokkaido 097-0101, Japan.
• Email: A dedicated email address for passengers is usually not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone or the feedback form on the official website if available.
• Social Media: Generally, regional airports like Rishiri do not maintain active social media pages. The official website remains the main source of information.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must immediately contact your airline's Lost & Found service directly at the airport.
• Passenger Support Service: for assistance and consultations at the airport, please approach the information desk or call the enquiry service.

Rishiri Airport (RIS) is the main air gateway to the island of the same name in Japan. Despite its modest size, the airport is well-connected to the island's main settlements. Getting to or from the airport to the centre of Rishiri (for example, to Oshidomari Port) is quite simple, although transport options are limited by the nature of island life.

Public Transport: Bus. The most budget-friendly way to move around the island is the scheduled bus service by Soya Bus. Routes connect the airport with the island's two main ports—Oshidomari and Kutsugata. Important feature: bus schedules are often coordinated with flight arrival and departure times, so you will likely not have to wait long for transport. The journey from the airport to Oshidomari Port takes approximately 20-25 minutes. This is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers without a large amount of luggage.

Taxi and Private Transfer. For those who value comfort and are travelling with heavy suitcases, a taxi is the best solution. The taxi stand is located right outside the terminal exit. The trip to the centre will take just 10-15 minutes but will cost significantly more than the bus. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (summer), as the number of vehicles on the island is limited. Some hotels also offer transfer services for their guests.

Car Rental. If you plan to actively explore the picturesque corners of Rishiri Island, car rental is the ideal option. This gives you complete freedom of movement. Several rental agencies have desks both at the airport and in major villages. It is best to book a car in advance via the internet to guarantee availability upon arrival. The airport provides parking where you can leave the car for the duration of your trip. Given the size of the island, parking is likely to be inexpensive or even complimentary.

Alternative Routes. It is worth remembering that Rishiri is an island, and besides air travel, you can get here by ferry from the city of Wakkanai, which also has its own airport — Wakkanai Airport. Some travellers combine these two methods, flying into one city and flying out of the other, to diversify their journey through Hokkaido.

Rishiri Airport (RIS) is a small regional aviation hub distinguished by its compactness and simple structure, making it extremely convenient for passengers. You will not have to worry about complex navigation or long walks.

The airport consists of one terminal, which handles all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures. Thanks to its modest dimensions, all infrastructure is within walking distance, and orienting yourself in the building is very easy. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between buildings.

The airport layout is extremely simple. Immediately upon entry, you will see the check-in counters. After completing check-in, passengers proceed to the security screening area, behind which lies a small waiting hall with a boarding gate. The arrivals area is located in the same part of the building and includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city. All key points are located on the same level, eliminating confusion.

One of the main features of Rishiri Airport is the speed of completing all procedures. Flight check-in and security screening usually take minimum time due to the low passenger flow. As a rule, arriving at the airport 60 minutes before departure is quite sufficient to check in luggage and proceed to your gate without rushing.

For navigation, simply follow the few signs or move along with other passengers — it is practically impossible to get lost here. This is the ideal airport for those who value tranquillity and dislike the hustle and bustle of major aviation hubs.

The history of Rishiri Airport (RIS) is a vivid example of how modern infrastructure can transform life in a remote region. The air gateway on the picturesque island of Rishiri in Japan was opened on July 1, 1962. Initially, it was a small airfield with a runway only 800 metres long, capable of accepting only light propeller aircraft, which nonetheless was a huge step in improving the island's transport accessibility.

A key stage in the airport's development occurred at the end of the 20th century. In 1999, a large-scale reconstruction was completed: the runway was extended to 1800 metres, and a new, more spacious and comfortable passenger terminal was built. This modernisation was of immense importance as it allowed the airport to receive medium-haul jet aircraft. The transition to servicing jets drastically reduced travel time to the mainland and gave a powerful impulse to the development of tourism on the island.

Today, Rishiri Airport is a vital transport hub, especially during the winter period when sea connections can be unstable due to harsh weather conditions. One of the unspoken achievements of the airport can be considered its location — during takeoff and landing, passengers are treated to truly breathtaking views of the conical silhouette of Mount Rishiri, often called Rishiri-Fuji. This makes arriving on the island and departing from it an unforgettable part of the journey.

Rishiri Airport (RIS) is a small regional airport serving Rishiri Island. Despite its compact size, it provides a basic set of services and amenities for a comfortable wait for your flight.

Dining and Shops. A small restaurant or café usually operates within the terminal building, where you can try local cuisine, for example, dishes using fresh seafood. There is also a souvenir shop selling famous island products, including kombu kelp, and other commemorative goods. The selection of establishments is limited, so do not expect the variety found in major airports.

Waiting Halls and Amenities. A general waiting hall with a sufficient number of seats is equipped for passengers. Specialised VIP halls or business lounges are generally absent in an airport of this size. Free Wi-Fi can be found in the terminal, as well as several counters or sockets for charging electronic devices.

Financial and Medical Services. Full-service bank branches or currency exchange points are unlikely at Rishiri Airport. It is recommended to exchange money in advance in major cities. An ATM may be installed at the airport, but it is better to carry a sufficient amount of cash. Basic first aid can be provided by airport staff, but there is no specialised medical centre.

Services for Passengers with Special Needs. The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped toilets. For travellers with small children, a mother and child room with a changing table is usually provided.

Accommodation and Business. There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds. The nearest accommodation options are located in the towns and villages on the island, reachable by taxi or bus. Special conference rooms or business centres are not provided at the airport.

Rishiri Airport is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest, yet it allows you to get acquainted with local cuisine right before departure.

The main place for lunch or a snack is the restaurant on the second floor of the terminal. It is located in the public area, before security control. Here you can take a table with a view of the runway and wait for your flight in a calm atmosphere. The restaurant's opening hours are usually synchronised with the schedule of the few flights.

The establishment's menu focuses on the gastronomic specialities of Rishiri Island and the Hokkaido region. This is a wonderful opportunity to try dishes made from the freshest seafood, especially the famous sea urchin (uni). Ramen with the addition of local kombu kelp is also popular. For those with little time, this is a great place for a quick but hearty lunch. If you simply want to drink coffee and eat dessert, suitable options can also be found here.

It is important to note that a selection of dishes for passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, Halal) is likely to be unavailable here. If you have specific dietary needs, it is recommended to bring snacks with you. Prices in the restaurant can be described as moderate for Japan. Additionally, packaged snacks, sweets, and beverages can be purchased at the small souvenir shop at the airport.

Planning a trip through Rishiri Airport (RIS) will go smoothly if you take into account a few features of this small regional hub. The airport mainly serves domestic flights, making it quite convenient and straightforward for passengers.

Arrival Time and Check-in: Despite the compact size of the airport, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This will give you enough time in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as the changeable weather characteristic of the island. Check-in and security control procedures here are generally faster than at major airports. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage: When flying to or from the island, it is highly recommended to choose a window seat. Stunning views of Mount Rishiri and the surrounding sea will open up to you. regarding hand luggage, standard rules apply: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. All sharp objects must be checked in. Electronic devices, such as laptops and power banks, should be carried specifically in hand luggage.

Transfers and Customs: Most flights from Rishiri operate with a transfer at major airports, for example, in Sapporo. When booking tickets, check whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the transit point. Since Rishiri Airport serves domestic flights within Japan, there is no customs control for passengers.

Savings and Useful Tips: To save money, book flight tickets in advance, especially if your trip falls during the peak tourist season (summer). Infrastructure at the airport is minimal, so do not count on a large selection of shops and cafés. Bring a light snack and an empty water bottle, which can be filled after security screening. This will help save both time and money.

In Case of Flight Delay: Weather conditions on the island can be unpredictable, especially in winter, which sometimes leads to flight delays or cancellations. In such a situation, first contact your airline representative for up-to-date information and instructions. Clarify your rights regarding the provision of meals or accommodation if the delay is significant. Be prepared for the fact that waiting facilities in the terminal are limited.