Overview
Kawaji Dam was built at Kawaji in the Kawaji Onsen area of Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, on the upper main course of the Kinugawa River in the Tone River system. Its arched wall, standing 140 meters high, is a striking sight, and the lake and gorge scenery spreading through the mountains of the upper Kinugawa is the main draw. It is a spot of water and mountains that pairs well with a visit to Kawaji Onsen.
Highlights
- ●A large dam wall standing 140 meters high
- ●The reservoir on the upper main Kinugawa River
- ●Prefectural Route 23 running across the dam crest
- ●Gorge scenery formed by the surrounding mountains
History
Kawaji Dam is a dam constructed on the upper main course of the Kinugawa River, part of the Tone River system. With a height of 140 meters, it is known as a large-scale dam serving flood control and water use on the upper Kinugawa.
Access
It is located at Kawaji in the Kawaji Onsen area of Nikko. Tochigi Prefectural Route 23 (Kawamata Onsen–Kawaji Line) runs across the top of the dam, so access is generally by car. Please check a map or official information for specific routes.
Best season
The daytime of early summer with fresh greenery or autumn with colored leaves is recommended, when the gorge scenery of surrounding mountains and the lake surface looks its finest.
Map
36.8989, 139.6928 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head to Kawaji Dam from the Kawaji Onsen area of Nikko
- 2View the dam wall from Route 23 crossing the crest
- 3Look out over the reservoir and the upper Kinugawa gorge
- 4Take a break at nearby Kawaji Onsen
Did you know?
💡 Tochigi Prefectural Route 23, the Kawamata Onsen–Kawaji Line, runs along the top of the dam, making the dam wall itself part of the road.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!