Ristijärvi is a municipality in Kainuu.

Understand

A water mill in Ristijärvi

The municipality is known for its beautiful natural scenery, with several lakes and forests covering much of the area. The name "Ristijärvi" refers to the shape of the municipality's largest lake, which resembles a cross ("risti" meaning cross and "järvi" meaning lake in Finnish).

Forestry is the dominant industry in Ristijärvi. Agriculture is also present, though not to the same extent as forestry. Dairy farming is particularly prominent, with several family-owned farms in operation.

Recreation and tourism are becoming increasingly important sources of income for Ristijärvi. The municipality's lakes and forests offer excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and berry picking. Cross-country skiing is popular in the winter months, with several maintained trails available for use.

Get in

The train tracks are nowadays for freight only.

By bus

Buses between Kajaani and Suomussalmi or all the way to Kuusamo stop at Ristijärvi.

By car

The centre is next to highway 5, one of the major north-south highways in Finland.

See

• 1 Ristijärvi church. A yellow wooden church, finished in 1807, one of the main landmarks of Ristijärvi. (updated Aug 2023)
• 2 White Guard and Lotta Svärd exhibition (Ristijärven Suojeluskunta- ja Lottanäyttely), Kirkkotie 5. Museum dedicated to the interwar (1920s–1940s) voluntary defence organisations Suojeluskunta and Lotta Svärd. The museum is in a former school and also includes an exhibition on education history. (updated Aug 2023)

Eat

• 1 Café 5-stop, Saukontie 37. Café. (updated Aug 2023)

Sleep

• 1 Ristijärven Pirtti, Viitostie 48, ☏ +358 45-610-8651. Camping and cabins. (updated Aug 2023)