This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you are better prepared for what to expect, what not to expect and can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Rebun. To help you make friends with Rebun before you visit, we've included a few helpful and fun things you should know about the area. Enjoy!
Rebun, Japan, is an island situated in and fifty kilometres off the northern tip of Hokkaido. You can take a ferry from the city of Wakkanai on Hokkaido Island to get to Rebun. There are also vessels directly connecting Rebun and Rishiri Island. Due to tourism, there are about five services a day; in winter, the services are reduced. Rebun covers an area of approximately eighty square kilometres and has a population of only around three thousand. Rebun is part of the Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park, offering scenic hiking trails, unspoilt nature, and rich flora.
If you look for a place to stay, check out Kafuka in the south and Funadomari in the northern part of the island. There are two clusters for accommodations of any kind. You can choose from hotels and guesthouses, but your options for a Rebun, Japan hostel will be extremely limited. Your Rebun, Japan hostel will be located on the west coast in the south of the island; note that your Rebun, Japan hostel is closed from October to May. Do not expect a high level of English when you travel around and try to book a place for the night.
In the centre of the island, there is a small mountain, Mount Rebun, which is just under five hundred metres high. It is easy to climb and give you a great opportunity to get a panoramic view of the island. It is a worthwhile destination for nature lovers, since Rebun boasts many wildflowers (some of the alpine flowers can only be found here), unique rock formations, and an unspoilt coastline. Do not miss Cape Gorota, a scenic cape in the north of Rebun Island. Gorota Beach is nearby; the sand beach is perfect for photographers, thanks to the lovely panorama. It is also popular among wind surfers. A network of hiking and walking trails makes it easy to get around and to get some relaxation. The best time to visit Rebun is between June and August. During the long and cold winters, very few tourists visit the island.
Written by local enthusiast for Rebun hostels
Flo
