Sameura Dam, Gravity dam in Kōchi Prefecture, Japan
Sameura Dam is a gravity dam in Kōchi Prefecture on Shikoku Island, standing across a forested river valley. The concrete wall rises steeply from the water and forms a large reservoir surrounded by densely wooded hills.
The dam was completed in the early 1960s to secure the island's water supply and control flooding. The project arose as part of the region's post-war reconstruction and permanently changed the landscape.
Local communities refer to this structure as a key part of their daily water supply and agricultural needs. The facility operates quietly in the background of everyday life across several prefectures on the island.
The site is visible from the road, but access to certain areas may be restricted. Visitors planning to explore the surroundings should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
The structure sits in one of Japan's rainiest regions, which underscores the importance of the dam for storing rainfall. The reservoir fills quickly during the rainy season and can gain considerable volume within a few weeks.
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