Overview
Sugagawa Dam is a gravity concrete dam in Ehime Prefecture. Standing about 40.2 meters high with a crest roughly 159.5 meters long, it was built for flood control and to supply water for the public system. Its catchment area covers about 14 square kilometers, and when full the reservoir spreads across some 22 hectares and holds around 3.05 million cubic meters of water. The quiet reservoir cradled among the hills makes a pleasant stop on a drive or walk, offering waterside scenery that shifts with the seasons.
Highlights
- ●The imposing body of a gravity concrete dam
- ●A reservoir of about 22 hectares among the hills
- ●Its role as a flood-control and water-supply facility
- ●Quiet waterside scenery that changes with the seasons
History
Construction of Sugagawa Dam began in 1969 and was completed in 1975. In this latter part of Japan's period of rapid growth, Ehime faced the twin challenges of flood control and a steady water supply, and the dam was planned as a gravity concrete structure to serve both roles at once. Since then it has protected downstream communities from flooding and underpinned their everyday water supply. For details on operation and any public viewing, checking official information is recommended.
Access
The dam lies in a mountainous part of Ehime Prefecture, at roughly 33.24 degrees north and 132.59 degrees east. Reaching it by public transport alone is difficult, so a private car or rental is the practical choice. From an expressway interchange such as those on the Matsuyama Expressway, continue along local and mountain roads. Some sections near the dam are narrow, so drive with care, and confirm which areas are open for viewing and whether parking is available through official sources.
Best season
The reservoir is at its best from the fresh greenery of spring and early summer to the coloring hills of autumn. During the rainy season and typhoons the dam performs its core role of flood control, and its appearance changes with any water releases. For safety, avoid stormy days and choose a calm, clear one instead.
Map
33.2419, 132.5911 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Drive up the mountain roads toward the dam
- 2Look out from the dam body over the reservoir and ridgelines
- 3Take an unhurried walk enjoying the waterside views
- 4Combine the trip with nearby scenic spots and hot springs
Did you know?
💡 At 40.2 meters high and 159.5 meters along the crest, this is a small-to-mid-scale mountain dam that quietly sustains the area's flood defense and water supply. Its storage of about 3.05 million cubic meters is a reassuring reserve for life downstream.
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