Kurobe Dam

Walk across japan‘s Tallest Dam

Introduction

The Kurobe Dam is a remarkable engineering feat located in Japan. It is known as the country’s largest arch dam and stands at an impressive height of 186 meters, making it Japan’s tallest dam. The construction of the Kurobe Dam was completed in 1963 after seven years of hard work and dedication. Today, traversing the embankment of the Kurobe Dam is one of the highlights of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, offering visitors a chance to experience the grand scale and height of this incredible structure.

Don’t Miss

One of the must-do activities when visiting the Kurobe Dam is taking a scenic stroll along the dam. Walking across the dam provides a unique perspective of its immense size and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It is a great opportunity to appreciate the engineering marvel that the Kurobe Dam represents.

Photographing the structure from different vantage points is another activity not to be missed. The dam’s impressive architecture and the scenic backdrop make it a perfect subject for photographers. Whether capturing close-up shots of the dam or capturing its reflection in the nearby Lake Kurobe, there are countless angles and perspectives to explore.

If you visit between June 26 to October 15, you will have the chance to witness a mighty spectacle – the discharge of water from the dam. This seasonal event is truly awe-inspiring as torrents of water are released, creating a powerful display of nature’s force. Climbing up the long stairway to the observatory will reward you with panoramic views of the dam and Lake Kurobe below.

How to Get There

To reach the Kurobe Dam, you can take the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, which can be accessed from either the Toyama or Nagano side.

From Toyama, you can start your journey at Dentetsu Toyama Station. The route to Kurobe Dam involves various modes of transportation, including trains, trolley buses, cable cars, and ropeways. The entire journey takes approximately 4.5 hours and costs around 8,960 yen for a one-way trip.

If you are coming from Nagano, you can take the limited express bus from Nagano Station to Ogizawa Station in Omachi. This bus ride takes about an hour and 45 minutes and costs 3,100 yen for a one-way trip. From Ogizawa Station, you can then take the electric bus to Kurobe Dam, which takes about 16 minutes and costs 1,570 yen for a one-way trip. The round-trip fare for the electric bus is 2,610 yen. It’s worth noting that the Kurobe Dam is located within the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, so if you are traveling the route, you will pass by the dam.

A Monument to Sacrifice and Endeavor

The construction of the Kurobe Dam was a monumental undertaking that required the labor of over 10 million people. It served as the intake facility for the Kurobe No. 4 Power Station, which supplied the electricity needed to fuel Japan’s post-war economic growth. The construction of the dam took seven years, and during this time, 171 people lost their lives. To honor their sacrifice, a monument stands as a reminder of their dedication and the challenges they faced.

Seasonal Spectacle

From June 26 to October 15, visitors to the Kurobe Dam can witness the spectacle of water being discharged from the dam. This event is a popular attraction as it showcases the power and force of nature. Climbing up the long stairway to the observatory provides an excellent vantage point to observe the water cascading down and the breathtaking views of the dam and Lake Kurobe.

When to Go

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route operates from mid-April to the end of November each year. However, to fully experience the magnificent water discharge at the Kurobe Dam, it is recommended to visit in early summer or early autumn. During these seasons, the water levels are at their highest, making the spectacle even more impressive.

Conclusion

Walking across Japan’s tallest dam, the Kurobe Dam, is a truly remarkable experience. It allows visitors to appreciate the grand scale and height of this engineering marvel. The dam’s scenic location and the opportunity to witness the discharge of water make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and engineering enthusiasts alike. Whether you choose to stroll along the dam, capture its beauty through photography, or simply admire its impressive structure, the Kurobe Dam is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, plan your trip to the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and make sure to include a visit to the Kurobe Dam in your itinerary.

Address And Maps Location:

Ashikuraji, Tateyama-machi, Nakaniikawa-gun, Toyama-ken


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