Kanro Sensui, Hokkaido | Complete Guide to Japan’s Northernmost Select 100 Waters【Secret Gem of Rishiri Island】
Rishiri Island floats at the northernmost tip of Hokkaido. On the climbing trail of Mount Rishiri towering at its center, “Kanro Sensui” (甘露泉水) springs forth, known as Japan’s northernmost Select 100 Waters. This article provides detailed information about the charm of Kanro Sensui, a premier water spot representing Rishiri Island, access methods, and nearby tourist information.
What is Kanro Sensui?
Kanro Sensui is a spring water located in Rishiri-Fuji Town, Rishiri County, Hokkaido, and is a precious water source positioned at the northernmost point among the “Select 100 Waters” designated by the Ministry of the Environment. It springs forth around the third station of the Oshidome climbing route on Mount Rishiri, among a stand of Todomatsu trees at approximately 290 meters above sea level. Not only climbers but also tourists seeking this clear water continue to visit.
Origin of Name and History
The name “Kanro Sensui” comes from climbers who once tasted this water describing its smooth throat feel and flavor as “sweet.” Kanro is a Buddhist term meaning “sweet dew that falls from heaven,” perfectly symbolizing the clarity and deliciousness of this spring water.
Kanro Sensui has long been used as a precious water source for climbers of Mount Rishiri and has served as a place of respite for local residents, cherished for many years as a spot representing the natural blessings of Rishiri Island.
Value as Japan’s Northernmost Select 100 Waters
In the Ministry of the Environment’s “Select 100 Waters” designated in 1985 (Showa 60), Kanro Sensui was registered as the northernmost water. Among the many natural waters found throughout the country, this geographical characteristic is extremely valuable and speaks to the richness of Rishiri Island’s natural environment.
Furthermore, the forest area where Kanro Sensui springs forth is designated as “Rishiri Island Natural Recreation Forest” and is also selected as “Forest Bathing Forests 100” as established by the Forestry Agency. It is truly a natural treasure where one can enjoy pristine water and forest bathing simultaneously.
Characteristics and Taste of Kanro Sensui
Clear Water Cultivated Over 20 to 30 Years
The greatest characteristic of Kanro Sensui lies in its formation process. Mount Rishiri is a stratovolcano formed by multiple volcanic activities, and snow and rain falling near the summit permeate deep underground through volcanic rock layers serving as a natural filter.
This water undergoes an extraordinary process lasting twenty to thirty years, being polished slowly underground. As it passes through volcanic geological formations, it is naturally filtered while simultaneously acquiring an appropriate amount of mineral content. After this long passage of time, it finally springs forth at the foot of Mount Rishiri.
Every drop takes decades to reach us—understanding this fact allows one to appreciate the true value of Kanro Sensui more deeply.
Water Quality Characteristics
Kanro Sensui maintains an extremely cold temperature of approximately 5 degrees Celsius year-round. This constant low temperature is a crucial factor in maintaining the water’s freshness and deliciousness.
The water quality is soft water, characterized by a mellow and crystalline taste with appropriate mineral content but no unpleasant flavors. Its low hardness makes it easy to drink and perfectly suits Japanese palates. The natural mineral balance obtained through passage via volcanic rock layers produces this unique deliciousness.
Among climbers, it is reputed to “penetrate the weary body,” and its refreshing quality and smooth throat feel are said to be unforgettable once experienced.
How to Access Kanro Sensui
Getting to Rishiri Island
Access to Rishiri Island where Kanro Sensui is located is primarily by ferry.
Access from Wakkanai
- Heartland Ferry from Wakkanai Port takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
- Arrives at Oshidome Port
- 2 to 3 ferries operate daily (varies by season)
Access from New Chitose Airport/Sapporo
- Approximately 50 minutes by airplane from New Chitose Airport to Wakkanai Airport
- Approximately 5 hours by JR limited express from Sapporo to Wakkanai
- Subsequently use ferry from Wakkanai Port
Rishiri Island also has Rishiri Airport, with direct flights from New Chitose Airport (summer only).
From Oshidome Port to Kanro Sensui
After arriving at Oshidome Port, access to Kanro Sensui utilizes Mount Rishiri’s climbing trail.
On Foot
- Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes walk from the Oshidome trailhead
- Elevation gain of approximately 290m
- Climbing trail is maintained, though trekking shoes recommended
By Vehicle
- Approximately 10 minutes by car from Oshidome Port to trailhead
- Parking available at trailhead
- Access Kanro Sensui from there on foot
Since Kanro Sensui is located around the 3rd station of the climbing trail, full mountaineering gear is unnecessary, though comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing are essential. Particular caution is needed during rain when surfaces become slippery.
Optimal Time to Visit
Kanro Sensui is accessible year-round, though optimal visiting periods are as follows:
June to September (Summer)
- Most accessible visiting period
- More ferry options available and weather is stable
- Climbing season with many tourists
- Most recommended for general tourists
October to November (Autumn)
- Beautiful fall foliage season
- Fewer tourists allow quiet enjoyment of nature
- Weather becomes unstable; caution advised
Winter (December to April)
- Snow accumulation makes trail access difficult
- Ferry operations may reduce frequency or be canceled
- Winter visits recommended for experienced visitors only
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Mount Rishiri (Rishiri-Fuji)
Mount Rishiri, where Kanro Sensui springs forth, is a 1,721-meter stratovolcano affectionately called “Rishiri-Fuji.” Selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, its beautiful conical form is spectacular from any angle.
Climbing season runs from late June through mid-September. Two climbing routes exist: Oshidome Route and Kutugata Route, with the summit taking approximately 5 to 6 hours one-way. Known as a treasure trove of alpine plants, endemic species such as Rishiri poppy can be seen.
Himeno Pond
A small pond with a circumference of approximately 800 meters at the foot of Mount Rishiri, popular as a scenic spot for the “inverted Mount Rishiri-Fuji” reflected on its surface. Approximately 15 minutes by car from Oshidome Port, or about 40 minutes on foot.
A walking path circles the pond, completable in approximately 20 minutes. From spring through summer, various alpine plants bloom; in autumn, fall foliage is beautiful, offering four seasons of scenic appeal.
Otatoma Pond
Rishiri Island’s largest pond with a circumference of approximately 1 kilometer. The reflection of Mount Rishiri on its surface is equally beautiful, with the dusk scenery being particularly exceptional.
The pond shore features shops and a restaurant house, where local delicacies such as Rishiri kelp soft-serve ice cream can be enjoyed. Well-maintained walking paths make it ideal for leisurely strolls.
Senho-shi Misaki Park
A coastal park in southern Rishiri Island featuring unique landscapes of jagged rock formations. The naturally occurring “rocky shore play pool” sometimes allows close observation of wild seals swimming.
The park includes a food hall serving dishes made with Rishiri kelp, allowing enjoyment of ocean delicacies. On clear days, views extend to Rebun Island and the distant Hokkaido mainland.
Peshi Cape Observation Deck
A small hill at 93 meters elevation near Oshidome Port, with views of the island’s streets, sea, and full panorama of Mount Rishiri from its summit. An approximately 20-minute easy hiking course from the trailhead.
The dusk scenery is particularly beautiful, with the sunset over the Sea of Japan and Mount Rishiri’s silhouette popular among photography enthusiasts.
Accommodations and Experience Reservations
Accommodation Facilities on Rishiri Island
Rishiri Island offers various accommodation types from family lodges to hotels.
Main Facilities in Oshidome Area
- Hotel Rishiri: Convenient location 5 minutes walk from Oshidome Port
- Minshuku New Yamamoto: Known for local seafood cuisine
- Pension Ū-nī: Welcoming, family atmosphere
Main Facilities in Kutugata Area
- Rishiri Marine Hotel: Includes hot spring facilities
- Minshuku Kamome-so: Fishermen’s lodge with fresh seafood
Most accommodations provide meals using local ingredients such as sea urchin, atka mackerel, and Rishiri kelp. Summer sea urchin rice bowls are exceptional and a major attraction of Rishiri Island visits.
Experience Programs
Various nature-based experience programs are available on Rishiri Island.
Trekking Tours
- Guided Mount Rishiri climbing tours
- Natural walks around Himeno Pond and Otatoma Pond
- Alpine plant observation tours
Ocean Activities
- Sea kayaking experiences
- Rocky shore fishing experiences
- Kelp fishing observation (seasonal)
Food Culture Experiences
- Cooking classes using Rishiri kelp
- Marine product processing experiences
- Local fisherman interaction programs
Advance reservations for these experiences are recommended. Reservations and inquiries can be made through Rishiri Town Tourist Association or accommodation facilities.
Basic Information
Name
Kanro Sensui (甘露泉水)
Location
Near the 3rd station of Oshidome Route, Mount Rishiri, Rishiri-Fuji Town, Rishiri County, Hokkaido
Approximately 290 meters above sea level
Access
- Approximately 10 minutes by car from Oshidome Port to trailhead
- Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes walk from trailhead
Operating Period
Year-round (though difficult in winter due to snow accumulation)
Operating Hours
24 hours (daytime visits recommended)
Fee
Free
Parking
Free parking at trailhead
Water Quality
- Water temperature: Approximately 5 degrees Celsius year-round
- Soft water
- Mineral-containing
Designations
- Ministry of Environment “Select 100 Waters” (designated 1985)
- Forestry Agency “Forest Bathing Forests 100”
- Japan’s northernmost Select 100 Waters
Inquiries
Rishiri-Fuji Town Office, Industrial Construction Division
Phone: 0163-82-1112
Rishiri Island Tourist Association
Phone: 0163-82-1114
Cautions
- Climbing trails have slippery sections; wear appropriate footwear
- Water consumption at own risk (boiling recommended)
- Always carry away trash
- Plant collection prohibited to protect natural environment
- Watch for sudden weather changes; avoid reckless actions
Book Accommodations Near This Location
When visiting Kanro Sensui, accommodation on Rishiri Island is recommended. Various accommodation types are scattered throughout the island, centered in the Oshidome and Kutugata areas.
Reservation Methods and Recommended Sites
Major Booking Sites
- Jalan: Extensive listings of Rishiri Island accommodations
- Rakuten Travel: Earn points for discounted reservations
- Booking.com: Accommodates international reservations
Regional-Specific Sites
- Hokkaido Official Tourism Site “HOKKAIDO LOVE!”
- Kita-Hokkaido (Wakkanai, Rishiri, Rebun Tourism Site)
These sites allow detailed facility information, reviews, and price comparisons. Particularly during summer high season (July-August), early reservation is essential.
Accommodation Area Selection
Oshidome Area
- Close to ferry terminal with convenient access
- Nearby trailhead to Kanro Sensui
- Relatively more dining and shopping options
- Recommended for first-time Rishiri Island visitors
Kutugata Area
- Multiple hot spring accommodations
- Quiet atmosphere for relaxed stays
- Good access to Otatoma Pond
- Recommended for repeat visitors and longer stays
Accommodation Tips
Most Rishiri Island accommodations are small family lodges or pensions. Approach with expectations of interaction and family atmosphere rather than large hotel facilities.
Most facilities provide meal plans with dinner and breakfast featuring fresh local seafood. Dishes using sea urchin, atka mackerel, and Rishiri kelp are exceptional, valuable enough alone to justify accommodation.
Innkeepers and proprietresses often share local tourism information and hidden attractions, representing a major attraction of Rishiri Island travel.
Preparation and Cautions When Visiting Kanro Sensui
Clothing and Equipment
Since Kanro Sensui lies on a climbing trail, appropriate clothing and equipment are necessary.
Essential Items
- Trekking shoes or athletic shoes (non-slip)
- Comfortable clothing (long sleeves and pants recommended)
- Rain wear (weather changes frequently)
- Hat and sunscreen
- Water bottle (empty plastic bottle if carrying water)
Convenient Items
- Trekking poles
- Insect repellent (summer)
- Towels and gloves
- Portable snacks (chocolate, etc.)
- Camera and smartphone
Regarding Drinking Water
Kanro Sensui is natural spring water, with many climbers and tourists consuming it, though public water quality testing is not constantly performed. Consumption is at one’s own risk.
For those concerned, boiling before consumption is recommended. Drinking should be avoided when unwell or immunocompromised.
Use clean containers when carrying water away, and consume quickly or refrigerate.
Environmental Conservation Considerations
Kanro Sensui and surrounding areas represent precious natural environment. Individual visitor consideration of environmental protection is important.
Rules to Follow
- Always carry away trash (no trash bins available)
- Plant collection prohibited
- Avoid venturing off designated trails
- Enjoy nature quietly without loud voices
- Avoid contaminating water sources (no washing)
- Smoking only in designated areas (fire prevention)
Following these rules allows future generations to enjoy Kanro Sensui’s benefits.
Rishiri Island’s Food Culture and Specialty Products
Visiting Kanro Sensui includes enjoying Rishiri Island’s unique food culture.
Rishiri Kelp
The premier specialty product of Rishiri Island, “Rishiri kelp” is known nationally as premium kelp, distinguished by refined sweetness and aroma.
Rishiri kelp is ideal for making broth, particularly favored by Kyoto restaurants. Souvenir shops stock various kelp products: kelp tea, shredded kelp, kelp candy with abundant variety.
Sea Urchin
Sea urchin raised eating Rishiri kelp features strong sweetness and concentrated flavor. From June through August’s sea urchin fishing season, fresh sea urchin rice bowls are available at island restaurants.
“Raw sea urchin” without alum preservatives showcases the sea urchin’s natural sweetness and ocean aroma, unforgettable once tasted.
Atka Mackerel
Atka mackerel caught in waters near Rishiri Island features excellent fat content and exceptional flavor. Particularly the one-night-dried variety serves perfectly as a rice accompaniment or drinking appetizer, popular as a souvenir.
Other Marine Products
Rishiri Island’s rich sea nurtures diverse marine products beyond sea urchin and atka mackerel. Octopus, squid, turban shells, and scallops—all exceptionally fresh and delicious—are available at island restaurants and lodges.
Rishiri Island’s Seasons and Points of Interest
Spring (April-May)
Spring arrives to the island with snowmelt. Though days remain cool, alpine plants begin budding and nature awakens. With fewer tourists, this period offers quiet island atmosphere enjoyment.
Summer (June-August)
Peak Rishiri Island tourist season. Temperatures hover around 20 degrees Celsius, ideal for climbing and nature exploration. Alpine plants flourish, particularly endemic species like Rishiri poppy at their peak.
The sea urchin fishing season provides access to fresh sea urchin rice bowls. However, tourist numbers peak, making early accommodation and ferry reservations essential.
Autumn (September-October)
Fall foliage season. Mount Rishiri’s slopes transform red and yellow, with reflections on Himeno and Otatoma ponds providing spectacular views. Though temperatures gradually drop, the season remains suitable for tourism.
Autumn flavors include salmon and mushrooms. With fewer tourists than summer, leisurely island exploration becomes possible.
Winter (November-March)
Rishiri Island winters are harsh with heavy snowfall. Ferry operations frequently suspend due to weather, making tourism inadvisable. However, snow-covered Mount Rishiri presents mystical beauty, appealing to advanced visitors experiencing severe nature.
Mount Rishiri climbing trails are snow-covered, making access extremely difficult.
Conclusion: Experiencing Hokkaido’s Natural Blessings at Kanro Sensui
Kanro Sensui stands as a natural treasure boasted by Hokkaido as Japan’s northernmost Select 100 Waters. Water filtered through volcanic rock layers over twenty to thirty years delivers clear purity, allowing visitors to experience nature’s grandeur and blessings.
The experience of walking Mount Rishiri’s climbing trail and encountering Kanro Sensui springing forth within Todomatsu forest possesses value transcending simple tourist attraction visitation. It becomes a precious opportunity to physically sense nature’s cycles and time’s passage, confronting Hokkaido’s grand natural environment.
Visiting Kanro Sensui and simultaneously enjoying surrounding attractions and Rishiri Island’s food culture creates richer travel experiences. Spectacular views at Himeno and Otatoma ponds, fresh dishes using sea urchin and Rishiri kelp, and warm islander interactions make Rishiri Island travel experiences truly special.
At Japan’s northernmost location, experience one drop of water welling forth after decades. Visit and experience firsthand its clarity and deliciousness. Kanro Sensui awaits you as a miraculous water created by Hokkaido’s nature.