Hello, this is _hiroyuki.ta. This time, I would like to introduce Shiokawa Dam in Yamanashi Prefecture, which I toured by motorcycle from central Tokyo. Shiokawa Dam is a multi-purpose dam located in Hokuto City, which performs functions such as hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and flood control. Shiokawa Dam is known for its beautiful appearance that harmonizes with the surrounding nature, and has attractions such as the dam lake and dam card. In addition, the area around Shiokawa Dam is rich in specialty products such as grapes, peaches, and other fruits, as well as wine, so you can enjoy the local flavors. Let’s take a closer look.
Shiokawa Dam is a multipurpose dam located in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture. The Shio River is a tributary of the Fuefuki River and belongs to the Fuji River system. Construction of the Shiokawa Dam began in 1969 and was completed in 1977. It is a concrete gravity dam with a height of 72.5m and a length of 288m, with a storage capacity of 11 million m3. The Shiokawa Dam plays a role in hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and flood control, and is an important regional water resource. Shiokawa Dam is known for its beautiful appearance that harmonizes with the surrounding nature, and has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Dams.
This time, I went on a motorcycle tour from central Tokyo. The starting point is Tokiwabashi. From Tokiwabashi, enter the Shuto Expressway Inner Loop Line and head toward Shinjuku. Transfer from the Shuto Expressway No. 4 Shinjuku Line to the Chuo Expressway and head toward Kofu. Drive approximately 140km on the Chuo Expressway and exit at Sutama IC. From Sutama IC, enter National Route 141, go via Kiyosato Line, and enter Masutomi Radium Line. Continue along the Masutomi Radium Line for approximately 12 km and enter Prefectural Route 610. If you follow Prefectural Route 610 for about 600m, you will arrive at Shiokawa Dam. The whole trip took about 3 and a half hours.
At Shiokawa Dam, you can first see the dam lake. The dam lake is called “Mizugaki Lake” and has a beautiful clear blue water surface. At the dam lake, you can enjoy leisure activities such as boating and canoeing.
At Shiokawa Dam, you can get a dam card next. A dam card is a card sold at vending machines installed at dams throughout Japan, and includes photos and information about each dam. There are many collectors, and there are about 250 types of dam cards nationwide.
At Shiokawa Dam, you can finally take a tour of the dam. Advance reservations are required to tour the dam. Visiting hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and the tour takes approximately 1 hour. During the tour, you will be given a detailed explanation of the dam’s structure, role, and history. You can also see the inside of the dam and the power plant. The tour is free.
Shiokawa Dam has a parking lot exclusively for motorcycles. Parking is available near the dam management office and is free of charge. It is approximately 100m from the parking lot to the dam. The parking lot also has restrooms and vending machines. The parking lot is open 24 hours a day, but please be aware that there are few lights at night.
Summary
This time, I introduced Shiokawa Dam in Yamanashi Prefecture, which I toured by motorcycle from central Tokyo. Shiokawa Dam is a multi-purpose dam located in Hokuto City, which performs functions such as hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and flood control. Shiokawa Dam is known for its beautiful appearance that harmonizes with the surrounding nature, and has attractions such as the dam lake and dam card. In addition, the area around Shiokawa Dam is rich in specialty products such as grapes, peaches, and other fruits, as well as wine, so you can enjoy the local flavors. If you are traveling by motorcycle, it is convenient to use the Chuo Expressway or Kiyosato Line. There is also a dedicated parking lot for motorcycles. Shiokawa Dam is a perfect spot for motorcycle touring. Please come and visit us at least once.
