Tsugaru Dam, Gravity dam in Nishimeya, Japan.
Tsugaru Dam is a gravity structure standing 97.2 meters tall with a crest spanning 342 meters across the Iwaki River in Aomori Prefecture. The structure manages water flow and storage for irrigation, flood control, industrial supply, and power generation in the region.
Construction began in 1988 and the project took 28 years to complete, representing a long-term investment in regional water infrastructure. Its opening in 2017 marked a significant addition to Japan's dam portfolio for managing natural resources.
The dam creates the Tsugaru-Shirakami Lake, which serves as a gateway to the Shirakami-Sanchi natural area and allows visitors to access this protected forest region.
The best time to visit is during mild seasons when conditions are comfortable and accessible. Wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding area.
The structure received Japan's Good Design Award in 2017 for blending technical excellence with thoughtful integration into the surrounding landscape. This recognition demonstrates that modern water infrastructure can be both functionally sound and visually considered.
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