Wadagawa Dam

Overview

Wadagawa Dam is a prefecturally managed multi-purpose dam built on the Wada River, a tributary within the Class A Sho River system, in Tonami City, Toyama Prefecture. It is a 21.0-meter-high gravity concrete dam whose construction began in 1962.

Highlights

• ●A 21.0-meter gravity concrete dam
• ●A multi-purpose dam combining flood control on the Wada River with water supply for nearby cities
• ●Formed the reservoir known as Masuyama Lake
• ●Adjacent to Masuyama Castle Ruins Park and a campground

History

Built with national subsidy as an auxiliary multi-purpose dam, it was designed to control flooding on the Wada River, supply water for use in the cities of Takaoka, Imizu, and Oyabe, and generate hydroelectric power through the Toyama Prefectural Enterprise Bureau. According to an English-language source, construction ran through 1967 and the associated 7.4 MW power station was commissioned in 1968. It is one of the few multi-purpose dams in the Sho River system and plays an important role in flood control and water supply — including irrigation, industrial use, and drinking water — for western Toyama Prefecture. Immediately below the dam, the prefectural Shoto No. 2 power station generates electricity with a maximum output of 7,400 kW.

Map

36.6547, 137.0394 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Drive from central Tonami City to Wadagawa Dam
2. 2Take in the view of the reservoir, Masuyama Lake
3. 3Walk around the neighboring Masuyama Castle Ruins Park
4. 4Enjoy the surrounding nature at the nearby campground

Did you know?

💡 The reservoir created by the dam was named Masuyama Lake, after the local place name.

Nearby spots