Yahagi Dam, Arch dam between Toyota and Ena, Japan.
The Yahagi Dam is an arch dam spanning the Yahagi River in Gifu Prefecture, creating the reservoir called Lake Okuyahagi for water storage and flood control. The structure measures 100 meters high and 323 meters across, forming a curved concrete wall integrated into the landscape.
Construction began in 1962 and was completed in 1970, requiring the relocation of residents from nearby villages to make way for the reservoir. The project emerged from postwar efforts to develop water resources and generate electricity for Japan's growing industrial regions.
The dam serves as an educational center where students and researchers study water management systems and environmental conservation practices.
Guided tours of the control room and underground passages are available with advance reservations made directly with the facility management. The best time to visit is during dry seasons when access around the dam and observation areas is most convenient.
When maintenance or high water conditions occur, spectacular discharge events send water cascading through multiple spillways into the river below in a dramatic display. These rare events attract photographers and nature enthusiasts keen to witness and document the impressive water flow.
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