Yagisawa Dam, Multipurpose arch dam in Minakami, Japan
Yagisawa Dam is an arched structure on the Tone River in Gunma Prefecture, rising 131 meters above its base. The structure forms a large reservoir surrounded by green mountain ranges.
Construction began in the late fifties and continued until 1967. The project was part of a nationwide program to secure water supply and power generation after the war.
The structure inspired a playful local dining tradition in the area. Nearby restaurants serve curries arranged on plates to resemble dams and reservoirs.
The easiest way to reach the site is by taxi from Minakami Station, taking around 40 minutes. From Jomo-Kogen Shinkansen station, the journey takes about an hour.
The overflow structure follows an unusual ski jump principle, where water shoots over a steep ramp 30 meters downward. This technique is designed to slow the force of the water at release and prevent erosion.
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