Etymology
Rishiri derives its name from the Ainu language, and means "high island", or "island with a high peak", a reference to the altitude of Mount Rishiri above sea level.Geography
Rishiri Island is located roughly west of Hokkaido; Rebun Island is a further to the northwest. Rishiri is roughly circular with a coastline of . The island spans from north to south and from east to west. Mount Rishiri rises to an altitude of and provides a good source of fresh water; numerous small ponds and springs are located at the foot of the mountain. The residents of Rishiri live in coastal communities, which are connected by a bus service that circumnavigates the island.Important Bird Area
The island has been recognised as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International because it supports populations of black-tailed gulls and Japanese robins.Climate
Communities
The island is divided between two towns, Rishiri (population 2,304), on the south-west half of island and Rishirifuji (population 2,798) on the north-east half of island, both which belong to Rishiri District, Sōya Subprefecture. These towns include the following communities, listed from the north side of the island, clockwise around:Transportation
* Ferry service to Rebun, Wakkanai, and Otaru * Air link to Wakkanai A bus runs the circuit route around the island. Rishiri Airport is located in Rishirifuji.History
* 1807-1808 Failed military expedition to Sakhalin, part of deceased buried at cape Peshi. *Economy
The economy of Rishiri Island formerly depended on the fishing of Pacific herring, but the herring stock is now mostly depleted. Rishiri Island is now noted for its production of dried kombu.Noted features
* Pon-yama () - a mountain top near north coast, nearby a site of non-coastal hiking camp on island Other features of Rishiri Island include: * Cape Peshi on the East side of the port Oshidomari * Cape Senhoshi ** Neguma (Sleeping Bear) Rock * Jimmen Rock * Ponmoshiri Island * Hime Marsh * Menūshoro Marsh * Otatomari MarshSee also
* List of islands of JapanReferences
External links
* {{Authority control Islands of the Sea of Japan Islands of Hokkaido Important Bird Areas of Japan