Shima Dam
A majestic gravity dam forming the stunning 'Shima Blue' Lake Okushima, surrounded by picturesque mountains. A serene spot for nature lovers and photo...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best 'Shima Blue' color
Shima Dam
Best Time
Best 'Shima Blue' color
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic gravity dam forming the stunning 'Shima Blue' Lake Okushima, surrounded by picturesque mountains. A serene spot for nature lovers and photographers.
"One of the most scenic views with beautiful blue colored water and mountains behind it."
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Don't stress about parking; spots are scattered around the dam loop. Enjoy the views as you find your perfect spot!
🚶♀️ Walk from Village
A 45-min walk from the village offers scenic views, but consider transport if weather is poor.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Okushima's 'Shima Blue'
Shima Dam
Witness the striking turquoise hue of the artificial lake, a breathtaking sight against the mountain backdrop.
Scenic Dam Loop
Shima Dam
Enjoy a leisurely stroll or drive around the dam, with picnic spots and scenic viewpoints along the way.
Surrounding Natural Beauty
Shima Dam area
Experience the fresh air and picturesque valley views, especially stunning when dusted with snow.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Shima Blue
Access and Getting Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Don't stress about parking; spots are scattered around the dam loop. Enjoy the views as you find your perfect spot!
🚶♀️ Walk from Village
A 45-min walk from the village offers scenic views, but consider transport if weather is poor.
📸 Picture-Perfect Spots
Numerous scenic areas offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the 'Shima Blue' and mountain vistas.
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Several picnic tables are available at stopping points around the dam loop. Enjoy a meal with a view!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Don't stress about parking; spots are scattered around the dam loop. Enjoy the views as you find your perfect spot!
🚶♀️ Walk from Village
A 45-min walk from the village offers scenic views, but consider transport if weather is poor.
📸 Picture-Perfect Spots
Numerous scenic areas offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the 'Shima Blue' and mountain vistas.
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Several picnic tables are available at stopping points around the dam loop. Enjoy a meal with a view!
❄️ Winter Wonder
Even without the blue water, the snow-covered landscape is breathtakingly beautiful.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Shima Dam for its stunning 'Shima Blue' lake and picturesque mountain scenery, making it a highly scenic and worthwhile stop. The ample parking and picnic facilities are appreciated, though some note the walk from the village can be long.
"We stumbled on this dam - it has in my view one of the most scenic view there -you will see lake okushima which as this beautiful blue coloured water and mountain behind it . Really wonderful to be there today"
S C
"We went here by walking since it was snowing. Bicycle rentals were not available when its snowing. Even without the usual blue waters. The view was still so breathtaking. Loved how the surrounding was covered with snow. The pure white view was a sight to see too. Would love to revisit again in a different season to see the shima blue color."
Aibi Y.
"Definitely worth a visit.
About 45 min walk from the near by village.
But you can also drive there by car as there is plenty of parking.
Clean toilets.
Great view and a nice park.
Beautiful nature around."
Wolf K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shima Dam is best accessed by car, with plenty of parking available around the dam's loop.+1 If you're coming from the nearest village, it's approximately a 45-minute walk.
Public transport options might be limited, so checking local schedules is advised.
Yes, there are multiple parking spaces available all around the dam's loop, so you don't need to worry about finding a spot. This makes it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Bicycle rentals may not be available, especially during off-peak seasons like winter when it's snowing. It's best to confirm availability beforehand if cycling is your preferred mode of transport.
You can drive around the dam's loop, stopping at various scenic points. A leisurely walk is also a great way to experience the surroundings, especially during less busy hours.
Yes, clean toilets are available at the dam, making it a comfortable place to spend a few hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of admission fees for Shima Dam itself. It appears to be a scenic spot accessible to the public for free.+1
Shima Dam is an outdoor scenic area, so it's generally accessible at all times. However, for the best experience and to enjoy the 'Shima Blue' color, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
Access to Lake Okushima, formed by Shima Dam, is typically free. It's a natural attraction for visitors to enjoy the scenery.
Yes, Shima Dam can be visited year-round. Each season offers a unique perspective, from the vibrant 'Shima Blue' in warmer months to a serene, snow-covered landscape in winter.
No specific restrictions are mentioned for general visitors. However, always be mindful of safety around the dam and water.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the scenic views of Lake Okushima, take photos, have a picnic at designated spots, and explore the surrounding nature. Some videos also mention nearby onsen facilities.
'Shima Blue' refers to the striking, vibrant turquoise color of Lake Okushima, the artificial lake formed by Shima Dam. It's a major draw for visitors.
Yes, there's a kids' park at the dam, and the picnic areas make it a pleasant spot for families to spend a few hours.
Many visitors find that 3-4 hours is a good amount of time to spend exploring the dam, enjoying the views, and having a picnic.
Expect beautiful mountain views surrounding a large dam with a distinctively blue artificial lake. The area is known for its natural beauty.+1
📸 📸 Photography
The entire dam loop offers numerous scenic areas for great pictures. Focus on capturing the 'Shima Blue' water against the mountain backdrop.
Later in the day, when the sky is brighter, can offer better lighting for photography. However, clear, sunny days are crucial for capturing the vibrant 'Shima Blue'.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned regarding drones, but it's always advisable to check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors' privacy.
The unique blue color of Lake Okushima is a natural phenomenon, often attributed to the mineral content and light reflection in the water, creating the famous 'Shima Blue'.
Capturing the scale of the dam itself, the vastness of the blue lake, and the surrounding natural landscape provides unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the 'Shima Blue' water is a major draw, even on days when the color isn't at its peak, the natural scenery provides a pleasant backdrop. The walk from the village, if chosen, can be an adventure in itself, but driving directly to the dam with ample parking is also a convenient option for families with strollers or young children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the lake, the dam structure itself provides a sense of scale and engineering prowess. The surrounding valley offers opportunities for capturing panoramic shots. Don't forget to explore the various stopping points around the dam loop, as each offers a slightly different perspective and composition for your shots.
🚗 Road Trippers & Drivers
Once there, you can drive the loop, stopping at various viewpoints to admire the lake and the dam. The presence of picnic tables and clean restrooms makes it an ideal place for a leisurely break during a road trip. It's a perfect spot to stretch your legs and capture some memorable photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Shima Dam
The dam's primary function is to manage water resources, ensuring stability for the region. The controlled release of water also contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the area, particularly when viewed from the scenic loop. Understanding its purpose adds another layer of appreciation for this man-made structure within a natural setting.
While the dam itself is an engineering marvel, its most celebrated aspect is the artificial lake it creates. This lake, Lake Okushima, is the source of the renowned 'Shima Blue' color, a visual spectacle that draws many visitors seeking natural beauty and impressive landscapes.
Experiencing 'Shima Blue': Lake Okushima
Visitors often describe the 'Shima Blue' as breathtaking and a highlight of their trip. Even when the water isn't its signature blue, such as during snowy conditions, the lake retains a serene beauty.
To best appreciate the 'Shima Blue,' it's recommended to visit during daylight hours, especially when the sky is bright.
Beyond the Dam: Nearby Attractions
For active visitors, the region is conducive to outdoor activities. While not explicitly detailed for Shima Dam itself, the mention of canoeing in one TikTok video suggests the potential for water-based recreation in the broader Shimagawa river area.
When planning your visit, consider combining a trip to Shima Dam with other attractions in Gunma Prefecture. This can create a more comprehensive travel experience, blending natural wonders with cultural and recreational opportunities.
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