Erosion and Sediment Control Work for the Momijidani River Park

Overview

The Erosion and Sediment Control Work for the Momijidani River Park is a sabo (erosion-control) facility built along the Momijidani River on Itsukushima (Miyajima) in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima Prefecture, completed in 1950. It is known as a pioneering example of "garden sabo," which combined erosion-control engineering with landscape gardening techniques to evoke the beauty of a Japanese garden. It is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

Highlights

• ●A leading example of "garden sabo" blending erosion control with landscape design
• ●Value as a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan
• ●Construction methods that avoided damaging washed-down rocks or felling trees
• ●The scenery of Momijidani Park surrounding the designated section

History

A debris flow disaster occurred on the Momijidani River, which flows down Mount Misen behind Itsukushima Shrine, following the Makurazaki Typhoon. Recovery proceeded as the Ministry of Education's "Historic Site and Scenic Spot Itsukushima Disaster Restoration Work," and the facility was completed in 1950. During construction, care was taken not to damage the washed-down rocks, not to fell a single tree, and to keep anything artificial out of sight. The design was handled by the Hiroshima Prefecture Civil Engineering Department, and the construction by gardeners.

Map

34.2916, 132.3257 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Cross to Miyajima and head toward Momijidani Park
2. 2View the sabo facility built along the Momijidani River
3. 3Observe the garden sabo technique integrated with the ravine
4. 4Stroll through the surrounding Momijidani Park

Did you know?

💡 The term "garden sabo" was coined during the construction of this facility.

Nearby spots