"Poroto" in Ainu means "Big Lake" - but this is a relatively small lake across from the Upopoy Ainu center - there are nature trails, bike rental and canoes to rent. Amazing plant life! Go to the wooden walkway, which is right under the expressway, and see the Skunk Cabbage area (flowering is April), the plants are HUGE...both forest plants like the wild climbing hyrandea, and the swamp plants like the Ooba Yuri, a kind of giant lilly Cardiocrinum cordatum - the Ainu used the bulbs of this for starch for food.

What a surprise discovering this place. We were here in autumn in late October. The drive to this visitors centre is truly beautiful. There are bears in the area and you pass a sign be aware. The road goes for around 3 km along the lake edge with beautiful overhanging trees. The visitor centre is very interesting with friendly people to help and they speak English. There are a series of Cabins and camping facilities there and beautiful nature tRail walks. You can borrow the bear bell from the centre or make sure you clap loudly when walking. This summer 20 bears were cited. They stand 2 m tall. Be aware . Most beautiful place to see the fall colours .,