Lake Poroto

This freshwater lake, with a circumference of Approx. 4 km, is located in the southeastern part of Shiraoi, Hokkaido. “Poroto” means “big lake” in the Ainu language, and to the west is the neighboring “small lake,” Ponto.

The wetland on the north side of the lake is known for its large colony of Asian skunk cabbage, and around May each year, you can see the white flowers in bloom. The area is also a great place for birdwatching, with swans and white-tailed eagles among the species that can be spotted, and freshwater fish such as yamame trout and wakasagi smelt also live here. Nearby is Poroto no Mori, a natural recreation forest where Japanese oak and maple trees grow, along with a walking trail of Approx. 6 km that was selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Walking Trails, making it a perfect place to enjoy a peaceful forest walk.

In summer, you can enjoy activities such as canoeing, while winter brings wakasagi smelt fishing. With lodging facilities and a campground by the lake, it’s also a great place for a longer, more relaxed stay. Be sure to stop by Upopoy (Symbolic Space for Ethnic Harmony), where you can learn about Ainu history and culture.