Overview
Mizugatoro Dam is a dam built on the Sagae River, part of the Mogami River system and a first-class river, in Nishikawa Town, Nishimurayama district, Yamagata Prefecture. It is a concrete gravity dam standing 34 meters high with a crest 372 meters long, operated by Tohoku Electric Power for generating electricity. The water it holds is sent to the company's Mizugatoro power station, producing up to 5,000 kilowatts. Once also called New Mizugatoro Dam, it is a facility that harnesses the waters of the Sagae River for hydroelectric power.
Highlights
- ●A concrete gravity dam 34 meters high with a 372-meter crest
- ●A Tohoku Electric Power hydroelectric dam producing up to 5,000 kilowatts
- ●Hydropower drawing on the Sagae River of the Mogami system
- ●Views of the reservoir among mountains stretching toward Gassan
History
Construction of Mizugatoro Dam began in 1980 and was completed in 1990. Its catchment area extends to about 259.8 square kilometers, gathering the abundant waters of the Sagae River for power generation. Built as a hydroelectric dam of Tohoku Electric Power, it has served to send water to the downstream Mizugatoro power station, generating up to 5,000 kilowatts. Once known as New Mizugatoro Dam, it has continued to operate to this day as a facility supporting the region's electricity supply.
Access
The dam lies near latitude 38.43 and longitude 140.07 in Nishikawa Town, Nishimurayama district, Yamagata Prefecture. It sits in the upper reaches of the Sagae River, among the mountains that lead toward Mount Gassan and Mount Yudono, and as public transport is limited, arriving by private car or rental car is the practical choice. The mountain roads call for great care with snow and ice in winter. Whether the area around the dam is accessible or open for viewing is governed by information from the power company and local authorities, so please confirm through official sources before visiting.
Best season
Early summer through autumn, when the surrounding mountains are colored with fresh greenery or turning leaves, is the season to best enjoy the scenery. The autumn foliage around October vividly tints the mountain valleys of the upper Sagae River. Winter brings deep snow and difficult road conditions, so a visit after the thaw is safest. Check the weather and road conditions and plan within reasonable limits.
Map
38.4347, 140.0725 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head to the upper Sagae River in Nishikawa Town and view Mizugatoro Dam
- 2Take in the scale of the concrete gravity dam body
- 3Reflect on its role as a hydroelectric power dam
- 4Enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery and autumn colors on the way back
Did you know?
💡 Mizugatoro Dam is built as a concrete gravity dam, a type that supports water pressure through the sheer weight of the concrete itself. It is notably wide, with a crest length of 372 meters against a height of 34 meters, and it uses the water of the Sagae River for power. The former name New Mizugatoro Dam also survives, and tracing the origin of that name is intriguing. For detailed specifications and viewing information, it is best to consult official sources.
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