
Sakuma Dam
A monumental gravity concrete dam offering stunning lake views and spectacular cherry blossoms in spring.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak cherry blossom season

Sakuma Dam
Best Time
Peak cherry blossom season

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental gravity concrete dam offering stunning lake views and spectacular cherry blossoms in spring.
"Peeking out from the bank, the ninth tallest dam in Japan (155m), made my knees tremble."

🚗 Parking Advice
Park at the Electric Power Museum; no direct parking at the dam. Be cautious of shoulder parking on the road above.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Variety
Different cherry tree species bloom sequentially, extending the viewing season from late Feb to mid-April.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sakuma Dam Lake Water Park
Chiba Prefecture
A picturesque lake offering serene views, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. Perfect for a peaceful escape.

Towering Gravity Concrete Dam
Aichi/Shizuoka Prefectures Border
Japan's 4th tallest gravity concrete dam (155m). Its sheer scale is awe-inspiring and can be intimidating from below.

Vibrant Cherry Blossoms
Sakuma Dam Park
Approximately 2,200 cherry trees of various species bloom from late February to mid-April, creating a stunning floral display.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Cherry Blossoms
Dam Card & Power Museum
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Advice
Park at the Electric Power Museum; no direct parking at the dam. Be cautious of shoulder parking on the road above.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Variety
Different cherry tree species bloom sequentially, extending the viewing season from late Feb to mid-April.
💧 Dam Card Collection
Get a unique 'dam card' at the Electric Power Museum for a memorable souvenir.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Park
The park around Sakuma Dam Lake is a great spot for dogs, with beautiful scenery for them to enjoy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Advice
Park at the Electric Power Museum; no direct parking at the dam. Be cautious of shoulder parking on the road above.
🌸 Cherry Blossom Variety
Different cherry tree species bloom sequentially, extending the viewing season from late Feb to mid-April.
💧 Dam Card Collection
Get a unique 'dam card' at the Electric Power Museum for a memorable souvenir.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Park
The park around Sakuma Dam Lake is a great spot for dogs, with beautiful scenery for them to enjoy.
🌧️ Rainy Day Drive
Even on rainy days, the drive to Sakuma Dam can be scenic, especially with off-road vehicles like the Jimny.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Sakuma Dam for its impressive scale and the beautiful cherry blossoms that bloom in spring. The scenic lake and the historical significance of the dam are also highlights. However, some find the dam less awe-inspiring than other famous Japanese dams, and the lack of water release during their visit was a disappointment for some. Parking can also be a minor inconvenience.
"Dam with electric power plant"
ahsin gani
"Good for biker"
J3ck2x
"Sakuma Dam, located on the border between Aichi and Shizuoka prefectures, is located midstream of the Tenryu River.
I remember seeing both Kurobe Dam and Sakuma Dam in my elementary school textbooks. I went to Kurobe Dam on a high school field trip, but I finally visited Sakuma Dam at the age of 60.
When I actually visited, it wasn't nearly as impressive as Kurobe Dam (unfortunately, there was no water release), but peeking out from the bank, the ninth tallest dam in Japan (155m), made my knees tremble. It was a weekday morning, but there were hardly any people there, giving it the feel of a hidden gem.
Sakuma Dam was completed in 1956 (Showa 31). At the time, it was the tallest dam in Japan and was considered a milestone in Japanese civil engineering history (its maximum generating capacity of 350,000 kW was also the highest in Japan at the time). It's also said to have laid the foundation for the construction of later large dams (civil engineering and power generation technologies were still in their infancy in Japan at the time). Apparently, 96 people died during the construction of Sakuma Dam. At the time, no engineers or workers wore safety helmets.
Sakuma Dam is still the fourth tallest gravity concrete dam in Japan."
あきら
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sakuma Dam is accessible by car, with parking available at the Electric Power Museum. Public transport options include JR lines to "Mobara Station" or "Aniyoshi Station" followed by a local bus.
While reachable by public transport, it involves a train ride followed by a local bus, making it a bit more involved than driving.
Driving is generally the most convenient way to visit Sakuma Dam, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas or visit on a less crowded day.
The dam is located on the border of Aichi and Shizuoka prefectures, along the Tenryu River. GPS navigation to 'Sakuma Dam' or the 'Electric Power Museum' is recommended.
Yes, Sakuma Dam can be visited as a day trip, particularly if you are coming from nearby cities in Aichi or Shizuoka prefectures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Sakuma Dam area and its surrounding park is generally free. However, specific attractions or events within the park might have separate fees.
The park and dam area are typically accessible during daylight hours. The Electric Power Museum has specific operating hours, which are best checked in advance.
Yes, you can collect a 'dam card' at the Electric Power Museum, which is a popular collectible for dam enthusiasts.
Sakuma Dam is known for its cherry blossom festivals, with events like the 'Ohanami Marche' often held in early April.
No advance booking is typically required for general access to Sakuma Dam. However, for specific events or guided tours, it's advisable to check their official websites.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can admire the impressive scale of the dam, enjoy the scenic lake, and during spring, witness the beautiful cherry blossoms. The Electric Power Museum provides historical context.
Absolutely! The dam's imposing structure, the serene lake, and the vibrant cherry blossoms offer numerous picturesque photo opportunities.
Yes, there are areas around the dam and lake where you can walk and enjoy the scenery. Be mindful of designated paths and safety.
Families can enjoy the open spaces, the lake views, and the cherry blossoms. The Electric Power Museum might also be interesting for older children.
Sakuma Dam stands at an impressive 155.5 meters, making it the ninth tallest dam in Japan.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited dining options directly at the dam. It's recommended to check for local eateries in nearby towns like Hamamatsu or Mobara.
Yes, the park areas around Sakuma Dam Lake are suitable for picnics, offering a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal amidst nature.
There might be small shops or cafes within the Electric Power Museum or near the dam entrance, but options are generally limited.
Local cuisine in the surrounding areas often features fresh produce and regional specialties. Exploring nearby towns will offer more variety.
While there might be some vendors during peak seasons or events, it's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to eat in a nearby town.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dam's grandeur from below, the serene lake, and the blooming cherry blossoms. The contrast between the concrete structure and nature is striking.
Yes, the combination of the dam, the lake, and the surrounding mountains provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography, especially during spring.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light for photography. However, the dam's imposing structure can be photographed effectively at any time.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the dam management for any restrictions before flying a drone.
Photos taken from the base of the dam looking up emphasize its height, while shots from the lake offer a broader perspective of the landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Picnics are a great option for families, with plenty of spots to spread out a blanket and enjoy a meal amidst nature. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes as there's a pleasant area to stroll around the park. Collecting a 'dam card' from the museum can also be a fun activity for kids interested in unique souvenirs.
🚗 Road Trippers & Bikers
For bikers, the area offers a chance to explore both the impressive engineering of the dam and the natural beauty of the region. The availability of parking at the Electric Power Museum makes it a convenient stop. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as seen in the Instagram Reel showcasing a rainy day drive.
🌸 Nature & Photography Enthusiasts
Early mornings and late afternoons often offer the best light for capturing the dam's imposing presence and the serene landscape. The variety of cherry blossoms ensures that photographers can capture different shades and stages of bloom throughout the spring season. Exploring the park and the areas around the lake will reveal numerous vantage points for stunning shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of Sakuma Dam
Today, Sakuma Dam remains the fourth tallest gravity concrete dam in Japan. Its imposing structure is a testament to the ambition and engineering capabilities of the era. Visitors can learn more about its history and the technologies used at the nearby Electric Power Museum. The dam's presence significantly shapes the landscape, creating the picturesque Sakuma Dam Lake, which itself has become a popular destination for its natural beauty and seasonal attractions.
While the dam's primary function is power generation, its surrounding area has evolved into a recreational space. The lake offers opportunities for enjoying nature, and the dam itself serves as a striking backdrop for photography and a symbol of Japan's industrial progress. Understanding its historical significance adds another layer to the visitor experience, appreciating the engineering marvel that continues to stand tall.
Sakuma Dam's Seasonal Spectacle: Cherry Blossoms
The visual impact of the cherry blossoms against the backdrop of the massive dam and the serene lake is breathtaking. Visitors can stroll through the park, enjoying the delicate pink and white hues that carpet the landscape. The different blooming times mean that even if you miss the peak of one variety, another is likely to be in full bloom. This extended season makes Sakuma Dam a prime destination for cherry blossom enthusiasts seeking to experience the beauty of 'hanami' (flower viewing).
Events like the 'Sakura Matsuri' (Cherry Blossom Festival) often accompany the blooming season, adding to the festive atmosphere. These events may include local food stalls, craft vendors, and cultural performances, making a visit during this time even more engaging. It's advisable to check the specific dates for these festivals and the predicted peak bloom times to plan your visit accordingly.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit