Kamihikawa Dam, Rock-fill dam in Koshu, Japan.
Kamihikawa Dam is a rock-fill dam on the Hikawa River in Koshu, Yamanashi Prefecture, built with a core of compacted rock and gravel. It stands 87 meters (285 ft) tall and holds back water used for power generation and river flow control.
Kamihikawa Dam was completed in 1999 as part of a broader effort to expand hydroelectric infrastructure in Yamanashi Prefecture. It replaced earlier facilities along the Hikawa River to improve both power output and flood control for the Koshu area.
The area around the dam sits in Yamanashi Prefecture, a region known for its fruit orchards and vineyards that depend heavily on reliable water sources. Walking near the structure, visitors can see how water management shapes the land and the way local communities use the valley.
The dam sits in a mountainous area and is best reached by private vehicle, as the roads leading to it are narrow and winding. Visiting in clear weather and during daylight makes it easier to take in the surroundings and find your way.
Although the dam is operated by TEPCO Renewable Power, its role goes beyond electricity production since it also actively manages flood risk along the Hikawa River. This dual function means a single structure serves two very different needs at the same time, which is less common for dams of this size.
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