In the far north of Japan off the north-west coast of the island Hokkaido, lie two smaller islands famed for their natural beauty, abundant wild flowers and hiking trails. The island of Rebun and Rishiri form part of national park, along with the island of Sarobetsu and part of Hokkaido. Photo by: k_yamamoto

Rishiri Island has the Mount Rishiri a 1,721-m dormant volcano. Most of the tourists went there to climb the volcano, an enjoyable hike which takes about 12 hours. There is a small shrine at the summit and the views from the neighboring islands from which you can appreciate the wonderful scenery, including a lovely three-hour trail from the lake at Himenuma, crossing the lower slopes of two smaller peaks. Photo by: Rex Missen

Another way to enjoy the scenery is by bicycle. A 20-km cycle track follows the northern coast of Rishiri from Hime Pond to Kutsugata, a lovely route offering stunning views of the volcano. Bicycle can be hired or borrowed from your hotel. The coast of Rishiri is peppered with small fishing villages and the islands is famous for its sea urchins and konbu seaweed. Photo by: yuou

In contrast Rebun is low-lying island.It is most famous for its rich flora, particularly its alpine flowers, some of which are not found anywhere else in the world. The flowers bloom between June and August, so this is good time to visit. Look out particularly for the Rebun Usuyukiso, rather like and Edelweiss. It’s one of the several protected, rare plants found on the island and can be seen in the Rebun Usuyukiso Area, place with a relatively high number of them. Photo by: yuou

When to go: June to August, when the wild flowers are in bloom. Population: Rebun 3,400, Rishiri 6,200. How to get there: travel by air or ferry from Wakanai to Rebun and Rishiri. You should know: Garota Beach is a sandy beach on the western coast of Rishiri, popular with wind surfers. The islands are known in Japan as Rishirito and Rebunto. Photo by: rangaku1976