This massive rock holds historical significance from the Oronko people, the indigenous inhabitants of the area long ago. Standing 60 meters tall near Utoro Harbor, it offers a breathtaking view. Climbing its steep slope via 170 stairs to the flat summit reveals a panoramic vista of the rocky reef extending into the clear blue Sea of Okhotsk, with Utoro and the majestic Shiretoko mountain range in the backdrop.
As you pass through the Oronko Rock tunnel heading towards Utoro, you’ll encounter the Utoro Public Parking Lot, which charges a fee only during the summer season. Nestled within this parking area is the Takeshiro Matsuura Monument, offering a scenic overlook of Utoro Harbor. *1 This location also hosts the Aurora Fantasy, a winter event in Shiretoko.
*1 Takeshiro Matsuura was a Hokkaido explorer and even originated the name Hokkaido. He visited Shiretoko three times and his “Shiretoko Diary” made this region more widely known.The monument to Matsuura was erected in 1988 on the 100th anniversary of his death.
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