Think dams are just concrete jungles holding back water? Think again! Japan offers an array of dams so captivating, they’ve become must-see destinations, defying the stereotypical image of dams as dull, utilitarian structures. Now, imagine one such dam that’s not only accessible for a day trip from the hustle and bustle of central Tokyo but also exudes a cinematic allure. That’s exactly what Shiromaru Dam is and in this blog post, you’ll find why it’s worth visiting.
Why Visit Shiromaru Dam
- A Fishway Like No Other: Shiromaru Dam boasts the longest fishway in Japan, a marvel of aquatic engineering that’s both functional and fascinating to observe. Nature enthusiasts and engineering aficionados alike will be captivated by this distinctive feature.
- A Cinematic Experience: With its breathtaking scenery, Shiromaru Dam has been chosen as the backdrop for music music videos and TV dramas. Walking through this location is like stepping into a movie set, where every angle is picture-perfect.
- Hiker’s Paradise: Shiromaru Dam is not just about visual wonders; it’s part of a hiking trail that offers stunning vistas and a peaceful escape from city life. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual stroller, the trails around the dam provide a rewarding experience.
- Architectural Excellence: Beyond its natural beauty, Shiromaru Dam is a testament to Japan’s prowess in dam engineering. It’s a place where architecture meets artistry, offering visitors a chance to appreciate the design and construction up close.
- Seasonal Splendor: Shiromaru Dam is a location that dazzles throughout the year. Whether it’s the cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant colors in autumn, or serene snowscapes in winter, the dam offers a seasonal spectacle that ensures every visit is unique and enchanting.
What is Shiromaru Dam?
Located in Tokyo’s Okutama region, Shiromaru Dam is primarily designed for electricity production. This gravity dam taps into the abundant waters of the Tama River and channels them into two power plants.
Constructed between 1957 and 1962, Shiromaru Dam is a gravity dam, meaning it relies on its own weight to hold back water. It’s not just a wall; it’s a 30.3-meter-tall fortress of concrete that stretches 61 meters at the crest. When it’s in full-show mode, it holds back a whopping 893 thousand cubic meters of water, covering about 9 hectares of land.
One of the unique features of this dam is its fish ladder—gyodo (魚道) in Japanese—which allows fish to go upstream for spawning, feedind, and reaching safe habitats. When the dam was built, it posed a problem for aquatic inhabitants that had migratory patterns. The fish ladder was built to help them move through the dam effortlessly. It’s a smart way to protect the ecosystem and harness water for power production at the same time.
Points of Interest
Observation Deck
Located close to the parking lot, this paved area juts out to give viewers a panoramic view of the Dam and its lush surroundings. Most photos of Shiromaru Dam are taken from this spot.
Shiromaru Dam Control Lake
The blue-green waters that surround Shiromaru Dam go by the name of Shiromaru Dam Control Lake. There’s a footpath constructed on top of the dam that gives visitors a fantastic view. On one side, you will see one end of the fish ladder.
Fish Ladder
The fish ladder at Shiromaru Dam is no ordinary feature; it’s an engineering marvel with significant ecological impact. Boasting a length of 330 meters (approximately 1082.6 feet), it holds the title for the longest fish ladder in Japan. While most dams obstruct fish migration, this fish ladder serves as an eco-conscious solution, providing a lifeline for various fish species like yamame salmon, sweetfish, and rainbow trout. Notably, there are only 30 such fish ladders in the entire country, making its presence in a dam of Shiromaru’s size quite rare.
Open to the public for viewing from April through November on select dates—mainly weekends and public holidays—this fish ladder uniquely blends utility with an element of entertainment. It was designed with steps and pools that simulate a natural stream, complete with resting spots for fish to rejuvenate as they make their way upstream. The feature is a fine example of responsible engineering, effectively bridging a 30-meter gap caused by the dam’s construction, thus enabling aquatic life to flourish. Visitors can even descend a spiral staircase to get an up-close view of this intriguing structure, adding an educational and awe-inspiring dimension to their visit.
Spiral Staircase
One of the features of Shiromaru Dam that catches the eye of photographers and videographers is the metal spiral staircase that leads to the fish ladder. One notable music video that was filmed here was Sakurazaka46’s “Naze Koi wo Shinakattan Darou.”
Ecotto Shiromaru
Ecotto Shiromaru is a small, eco-friendly center packed with interactive exhibits and educational material. If you’re traveling with kids or just keen to learn, this is where the dam comes to life in stories, models, and even hands-on activities.
Shiromaru Dam as a Filming Location
Shromaru Dam’s spiral staircase and fish ladder provide an atmosphere perfect for photos and film. Among the most notable media filmed here are DCU: Deep Crime Unit (2022) starring Abe Hiroshi and Yokohama Ryusei, as well as Sakurazaka46’s music video for “Naze Koi wo Shinakattan Darou” (2020).
Otama Hiking Trail
Shiromaru Dam is among the notable stops along the Otama Hiking Trail in Okutama. The trail stretches 8.2 km long from JR Kori Station to Okutama Station and takes around 3 hours to complete.
Nearby Cafes
One of the highlights of visiting Okutama is dining at nature cafes. The two below provide spectacular views as you sip your coffee or tea.
Kikori Cafe
This cozy cafe serves only light meals like sandwiches and shaved ice. The cafe doesn’t have air conditioning but has large airy windows with a beautiful view of the foliage. A part of the wall is stocked with books, which you can enjoy reading with
Gallery Poppo
This idyllic cafe overlooks Hatonosu Valley. They serve curry and sandwiches with locally sourced vegetables and fair trade organic coffee. You can read more about Gallery Poppo here.
FAQ
What is Shiromaru Dam known for?
Shiromaru Dam is renowned for its extensive fish ladder, which is the longest in Japan and plays a vital role in aiding fish migration upstream. The dam also offers other attractions such as an observation deck and a control lake.
When can I visit the fish ladder at Shiromaru Dam?
The fish ladder is open for public viewing from April through November. However, the feature is only accessible during selected dates—mainly weekends and public holidays.
What is the Shiromaru Dam Control Lake?
The Control Lake serves as a reservoir for the Shiromaru Dam. It’s not just a functional feature but also adds to the scenic beauty of the location.
Where can I see the spiral staircase?
The spiral staircase is an architectural feature within the dam complex. Visitors can walk down this spiral staircase to get a closer look at the inner workings of the dam and its fish ladder.
What is Ecotto Shiromaru?
Ecotto Shiromaru is a visitor center that provides educational material about the dam and its eco-friendly features, including the fish ladder. It’s an excellent stop for those looking to deepen their understanding of the dam’s ecological impact.
Tips for Visiting Shiromaru Dam
- Expect some areas to be wet. Wearing waterproof shoes is advised.
- There are limited trains between Okutama and central Tokyo. Pack light snacks or visit nearby cafes for a quick meal. There’s a vending machine near the entrance to Ecotto Shiromaru if you need drinks.
- Check public viewing dates. The fish ladder is only open for public viewing on select dates, mainly weekends and public holidays. Plan your visit accordingly.
- Shiromaru Dam is accessible 10 minutes on foot from either Hatonosu Station or Shiromaru Station. If you’re coming from central Tokyo, the train will stop at Hatonosu Station first.
How to Get to Shiromaru Dam
Shiromaru Dam (白丸ダム, しろまるダム)
Public viewing: Wednesdays, Saturdays, & Sundays, 10:00 to 16:00
10-minute walk from JR Hatonosu Station
10-minute walk from JR Shiromaru Station
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