Kawabe Dam

Overview

Kawabe Dam is a dam about 27 meters high in Kawabe, Kamo District, Gifu Prefecture. Completed in 1936, this historic dam impounds the waters of the Hida River, and the reservoir it created is cherished as a calm expanse of water spreading among the mountains. The lake is also known as a venue for water sports such as boating and canoeing, and the breeze crossing its green-framed surface makes it a refreshing spot for getting close to nature.

Highlights

• ●A roughly 27-meter-tall dam that conveys its 1936 completion
• ●A mountain reservoir impounding the waters of the Hida River
• ●A stage for water sports such as boating and canoeing
• ●A calm lakescape that changes its face with the seasons

History

Kawabe Dam was completed in 1936 and stands roughly 27 meters tall. With its origins in the early Showa era, it has long held back the flow of the Hida River. It also stands as something of a civil-engineering heritage, having supported the region's water use over many decades. For details on its purpose and management, please refer to official sources.

Map

35.4789, 137.0690 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Head to the town of Kawabe and take in the waterscape of Kawabe Dam and its reservoir
2. 2Look out over the lake and surrounding mountains from the dam embankment
3. 3Enjoy water activities such as boating and canoeing on the lake
4. 4Stroll the surrounding nature and savor the satoyama scenery of Kawabe

Did you know?

💡 Completed in 1936, Kawabe Dam conveys the civil-engineering craft of the early Showa era to the present day. Its reservoir is cherished as a base for water sports such as boating and canoeing, and the chance to enjoy watersports on a quiet mountain lake is a charm rather rare within the prefecture.

Nearby spots