Overview
Hokigawa Dam is a hydroelectric weir built on the Hoki River, part of the Naka River system, in Nasushiobara City, Tochigi Prefecture. Standing 11.1 meters tall, this gravity concrete dam diverts water to the Hokigawa Power Station operated by TEPCO. Set within a mountain valley near the famous Shiobara hot spring resort, it lacks the grand scale of major tourist dams, but offers a quiet glimpse of how a clear mountain river and power generation coexist. Rather than a sightseeing reservoir, its appeal lies in the surrounding gorge scenery.
Highlights
- ●The trim form of an 11.1-meter gravity concrete dam and weir
- ●An active TEPCO facility generating up to 4,800 kilowatts
- ●The clear waters of the Hoki River in the Naka River system
- ●Nature walks from a location close to Shiobara hot spring resort
History
Hokigawa Dam was constructed as a weir to supply water to TEPCO's Hokigawa hydroelectric power station. Though modest at 11.1 meters high, it draws water from the Hoki River to generate a maximum output of 4,800 kilowatts. Using the abundant flow of the Naka River system, the facility converts the natural bounty of these mountains and rivers into electricity, reflecting how water rising from the peaks around Shiobara has long supported local life below. For details on its construction year and operational history, please check official sources.
Access
The dam lies in Nasushiobara City, Tochigi Prefecture, within the valley along the Hoki River. It is generally reached from the area along National Route 400 heading toward the Shiobara hot spring resort. By public transport, take a bus or taxi from the nearest station toward Shiobara. As this is a working power facility, there are few tourist amenities nearby, and access areas may change; please confirm road conditions and viewing access via official information before visiting.
Best season
The valley along the Hoki River changes with each season. Autumn, when the Shiobara area bursts into color, is especially beautiful, with foliage reflected on the river's surface, making it ideal to combine with a walk. Early summer's fresh greenery and spring, when snowmelt swells the river, are also recommended. In winter, take care with icy or snowy roads; mountain weather shifts quickly, so check conditions before your trip.
Map
36.9658, 139.8569 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Base yourself at Shiobara resort and head toward the Hoki River along Route 400
- 2Approach the dam area while enjoying the river valley scenery
- 3View the landscape woven by the weir and the mountain stream
- 4Return to Shiobara for a hot spring bath and a meal
Did you know?
💡 Despite its small 11.1-meter height, Hokigawa Dam is an active facility generating up to 4,800 kilowatts. While the word 'dam' often conjures a huge reservoir, this is closer to an intake weir that harnesses the river's flow to produce power, and it is treated as a separate site from the Hoki River itself. It is a hardworking, utility-focused dam that quietly supports the region's electricity supply.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!