Oshirakawa Dam

Oshirakawa Dam is a rock-fill dam that crosses the Oshirakawa River near Shirakawa in Gifu Prefecture and serves hydroelectric power generation for the region. The structure was built by piling earth and stone and creates a large reservoir behind it.

The project began in the early 1960s and was completed shortly after to meet the region's water management needs. It was part of a broader wave of hydroelectric dam construction across Japan during that period.

The dam represents Japanese engineering excellence in water resource management, serving multiple communities along the Shō River tributary system.

Access to this site may be limited since it is an industrial facility surrounded by security measures. Visitors should check in advance whether public tours are available or if only distant views from outside are possible.

The associated hydroelectric power station, located 7.1 kilometers downstream, generates 66.3 MW of electricity using a Francis-type turbine system.

Location: Shirakawa

Location: Gifu Prefecture

Inception: 1961

Height: 95 m

GPS coordinates: 36.14111,136.82194

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:25