Mikaeridai Park

Mikaeridai Park on Rishiri Island serves as both the start of one trail up Mt. Rishiri and a viewpoint for the volcano itself. From a lookout about five minutes along the path from the parking area, the mountain's jagged ridgelines and scarred slopes fill the view, shaped by heavy summer rain and deep winter snowfall. Below, the coastal town of Kutsugata and the island's southwestern shore come into frame. The area around the lookout is covered in Japanese stone pines and other hardy alpine vegetation growing at lower altitudes than usual, a result of Hokkaido's harsher climate. Benches are set at the viewpoint for a longer rest.