Ishibuchi Dam

Ishibuchi Dam is an embankment dam on the Isawa River in Iwate Prefecture that was built for water management purposes. The structure functioned as part of the region's water resource infrastructure until it was eventually covered by a larger downstream project.

Construction started in 1945 during Japan's post-war rebuilding period and was completed in 1953. The project reflected the nation's efforts to develop water resources for regional growth.

The dam represents Japanese engineering capabilities in water management infrastructure, contributing to regional development through multiple water resource functions.

The dam can be reached by road through the surrounding area, and the site can be explored on foot. Visiting during drier months provides better access to viewpoints around the structure.

The entire structure became submerged in 2013 when a larger downstream dam was completed and filled with water. Today it lies hidden beneath the surface, a remnant of earlier water management efforts that were eventually superseded.