Overview
Dorobu Dam is a gravity dam built for power generation in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. Standing at an elevation of about 890 meters, it is a compact structure, 21.6 meters high and 56 meters long along its crest, yet it gathers the abundant mountain waters to produce electricity. Its catchment area spans 199 square kilometers, and at full pool the reservoir covers roughly 3 hectares. Rather than a tourist facility, it is a place to savor the quiet of deep mountains and water.
Highlights
- ●A gravity dam for power generation built at about 890 meters elevation
- ●A compact structure 21.6 meters high with a 56-meter crest
- ●A quiet reservoir covering roughly 3 hectares at full pool
- ●A mountain water facility drawing from a 199-square-kilometer basin
History
Construction began in 1962 and was completed the following year, in 1963. From the outset it was planned as a gravity dam for power production, drawing on mountain water to supply electricity. Its total storage capacity is said to be about 225,000 cubic meters. Whether the dam area can be visited, and the details of its facilities, are best confirmed through the operator's official information.
Access
The dam lies within Tochigi Prefecture at roughly 36.88 degrees north and 139.58 degrees east, in mountainous terrain at an elevation of about 890 meters. It sits in the deep mountains of the prefecture's northwest, so a private car is essentially required. As the route runs along mountain roads, check weather, road conditions and winter accessibility through official information beforehand.
Best season
Set high in the mountains, the site is at its best amid the vivid greenery of early summer and the autumn foliage that tints the hillsides. Even in summer the crisp air is a draw, but given the high elevation and likely winter snow and ice, visiting in the snow-free seasons is safer.
Map
36.8753, 139.5844 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Drive into the northwestern mountains toward Dorobu Dam
- 2Take in the dam and reservoir and savor the highland quiet and air
- 3Enjoy the natural scenery of the surrounding peaks and valleys at a leisurely pace
- 4Keep the schedule easy and descend the mountain roads while it is still light
Did you know?
💡 Though modest for a dam at 21.6 meters high and 56 meters along the crest, it stands out for its location at an elevation of about 890 meters. It harnesses water gathered from a broad 199-square-kilometer basin to generate power.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!