Misogawa Dam (味噌川ダム)

Flow of the course

About this spot

An artificial lake formed by the Misogawa Dam in Kiso Village, located at the uppermost reaches of the Kiso River. It's a quiet lake surrounded by deep green mountains, with the sky and trees reflected on its surface, changing expression through the day. Walking along the top of the dam lets you look down on both the lake upstream and the valley downstream, and the height difference is likely to surprise children. It reshapes how you look at a map to realize that the great Kiso River begins from a single drop deep in these mountains. Thanks to the high elevation, the breeze stays cool even in midsummer, and you're less likely to sweat outdoors -- one of the perks of the highlands.

Tips

The areas open for viewing on and around the dam top are set, so please follow the posted signs. Stay away from areas without a fence. There are few vending machines nearby, so bring your own drinks. Some sections of the mountain road are narrow, so drive carefully. Weather can change quickly in this area, so rain gear offers peace of mind.

Best time to visit

About 1 hour. The lake surface looks most beautiful in the clear light before noon.

Access & map

2058-22 Ogiso, Kiso, Kiso District, Nagano 399-6203