NaraTravel

Take a Drive Break at a Scenic Overlook Overlooking an Emerald-Colored Dam Lake

About this spot

A gravity concrete dam approximately 100m in height along Route 168, damming the flow of the Tsutsukawa River for hydroelectric power generation operated by J-POWER (Japan Electric Power Development Co., Ltd.). As you navigate the winding mountain roads, this colossal concrete wall suddenly appears with striking impact. Upstream spreads a quiet dam lake whose water surface glimmers emerald green depending on the light. The impounded water is sent downstream to a power station, generating electricity in the deep valleys of the Tsutsukawa gorge. After rain, mountain mist may settle over the lake, creating an ink-wash painting-like fantastical scenery. If you have a friend who loves dams and civil engineering structures, this spot is sure to impress, providing a punctuation mark in your continuous drive through scenic vistas.

Tips

Approximately 20-30 minutes south of the Tanize Suspension Bridge via Route 168. There are no large parking areas around the dam, so you'll need to park briefly in safe areas along the road shoulder. Since there are many curves in this section, be very careful of oncoming traffic when stopping. There are no toilets or shops, so take your break at Michi-no-Eki Tsutsukawa-go ahead.