Overview
Masaki Dam is a prefecturally managed dam on the Katsuura River, a Class 2 river flowing through Kamikatsu Town in Katsuura District, Tokushima Prefecture. It is a gravity concrete dam standing 67.0 meters high, and the reservoir formed by damming the mountain gorge lies quietly amid the deep green ridges of Kamikatsu. Kamikatsu is a small mountain village famous for its irodori leaf business and its pioneering Zero Waste declaration. Masaki Dam supports the water and daily life of this community, while also serving as a hidden scenic stop along a valley drive.
Highlights
- ●The imposing body of the 67-meter-high gravity concrete dam
- ●The quiet reservoir scenery framed by green mountain ridges
- ●A convenient stop on a gorge drive up the Katsuura River
- ●Infrastructure supporting the water of Zero Waste Kamikatsu Town
History
Masaki Dam is a gravity concrete dam built and managed by Tokushima Prefecture for the flood control and water use of the Katsuura River, with a dam height of 67.0 meters. A gravity concrete dam is a sturdy structure that resists water pressure through its own weight, a form widely adopted in Japanese river management. For the year of construction, detailed specifications, and information on discharge and management, it is best to check the official information of Tokushima Prefecture or the managing office.
Access
The dam is located in Kamikatsu Town, Katsuura District, Tokushima Prefecture, in the mountains upstream along the Katsuura River. Public transport is limited, so the practical route is by car from the Tokushima City area via National Route 55 and the prefectural road along the Katsuura River. Since it involves driving on mountain roads, please check the latest road conditions, accessible areas, and parking before setting out.
Best season
The autumn foliage season, when the mountains of Kamikatsu turn color, offers a beautiful contrast between the reservoir and the surrounding slopes, making it an especially rewarding drive destination. Early summer with fresh greenery is also refreshing, and after rain you may witness the power of the discharge. Because mountain road conditions change with the weather, confirm forecasts and road information before your visit.
Map
33.9128, 134.4267 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Drive up along the Katsuura River from the Tokushima City area toward Kamikatsu
- 2Arrive at Masaki Dam and enjoy views of the dam body and reservoir
- 3Stroll the surrounding gorge and mountain-village scenery of Kamikatsu
- 4Learn about the town's irodori leaf business and Zero Waste efforts
Did you know?
💡 Kamikatsu Town, home to Masaki Dam, is known for its irodori business, in which elderly residents ship decorative leaves used to garnish cuisine, and for a Zero Waste declaration that led the nation. This prefectural dam supports the water of that remarkable mountain village.
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