Overview
Ono Dam is a 61.4-meter gravity concrete dam built on the upper main stream of the Yura River, a Class A river, in Kashihara, Miyama-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture. Planned for flood control and hydroelectric power, it was the first multipurpose dam in Kyoto Prefecture. The reservoir it holds back is known as Lake Rainbow (Niji-no-mizuumi). Its shores lie within the Kyoto Tamba Kogen Quasi-National Park and are cherished as a cherry-blossom spot, a restful place where water and nature are in harmony.
Highlights
- ●A 61.4-meter gravity concrete dam
- ●The reservoir Lake Rainbow, one of the 100 Best Dam Lakes
- ●A cherry-blossom spot lining the lakeshore
- ●A Selected Civil Engineering Heritage designated in 2025
History
Ono Dam was planned and built as part of the Yura River Comprehensive Development Project, aimed at flood control of the Yura River and hydroelectric power generation of 11,000 kilowatts. It was carried out first by the Home Ministry and later by the Kinki Regional Construction Bureau of the Ministry of Construction. Begun in 1957, it was the first multipurpose dam in Kyoto Prefecture, and after completion its management was transferred to Kyoto Prefecture. In recognition of its long service to regional flood control and power supply, it was designated a Selected Civil Engineering Heritage by the Japan Society of Civil Engineers in 2025.
Access
The dam sits on the upper Yura River in Kashihara, Miyama-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture. It lies within the Miyama area, known for its village of thatched-roof houses, surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery. As public transport is limited, traveling by car is the more convenient option. Check official information on parking, any events, and the areas open to visitors around the lake before planning your trip.
Best season
The greatest draw is the cherry-blossom season. Spring, when the blossoms lining the shores of Lake Rainbow are mirrored on the water, is a popular time that draws many visitors. Early summer with its dazzling fresh greenery and autumn with the mountains in color also offer beautiful lakeside views, so the scenery can be enjoyed in every season. As event dates and peak bloom shift from year to year, checking in advance is recommended.
Map
35.2625, 135.4606 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Take in the dam wall and sense the scale of Kyoto's first multipurpose dam
- 2Stroll the shores of Lake Rainbow and enjoy the scenery of the seasons
- 3In cherry-blossom season, savor the flowers reflected on the water
- 4Explore the surrounding hills, including Miyama's thatched-roof village
Did you know?
💡 Lake Rainbow, the reservoir formed by the dam, has been chosen among the 100 Best Dam Lakes selected by the Dam Water Source Environment Improvement Center. Ono Dam, a 61.4-meter gravity concrete dam, was the first multipurpose dam in Kyoto Prefecture and was also recognized as a Selected Civil Engineering Heritage in 2025. Dams of the same name also exist in Hokuto City in Hokkaido, Hirono Town in Iwate Prefecture, and Uenohara City in Yamanashi Prefecture.
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