Administratively the island is part of Hokkaido Prefecture, and is home to two towns, Rishiri and Rishirifuji.

[1] Along with Rebun Island and the coastal area of the Sarobetsu Plain, Rishiri forms the Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park.

Mount Rishiri rises to an altitude of 1,721 metres (5,646 ft) and provides a good source of fresh water; numerous small ponds and springs are located at the foot of the mountain.

[3][7] The residents of Rishiri live in coastal communities, which are connected by a bus service that circumnavigates the island.

[3] 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.