Miboro Dam
Japan's first rock-fill dam, creating the vast, beautiful Lake Miboro. A marvel of engineering amidst stunning natural scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene views, fewer crowds
Miboro Dam
Best Time
Serene views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Japan's first rock-fill dam, creating the vast, beautiful Lake Miboro. A marvel of engineering amidst stunning natural scenery.
"State of the art construction of a very beautiful natural location. Worth visiting. It’s like a miracle."
🚗 Parking is Convenient
Park your car right next to the top of the dam for easy access to viewpoints.
🚶 Walk on Top of the Dam
Experience walking on the dam's surface, similar to Kurobe Dam, for a unique perspective.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Rock-Fill Structure
Top of the Dam
Marvel at the sheer scale of Japan's first rock-fill dam, with stones larger than you can imagine.
Lake Miboro Vista
Dam Site Park
Gaze upon the expansive, crystal-clear waters of Lake Miboro, a stunning contrast to the dam's rugged construction.
Dam History Museum
Near the Dam
Delve into the fascinating history and construction of this engineering marvel at the nearby museum.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Miboro Dam
Understanding Miboro Dam's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Convenient
Park your car right next to the top of the dam for easy access to viewpoints.
🚶 Walk on Top of the Dam
Experience walking on the dam's surface, similar to Kurobe Dam, for a unique perspective.
🏞️ Enjoy the Scenic Drive
The drive to Lake Miboro offers beautiful views that change with the seasons.
🧐 Understand the Name
Miboro can be tricky to pronounce, but it's worth the effort to visit this impressive site.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Convenient
Park your car right next to the top of the dam for easy access to viewpoints.
🚶 Walk on Top of the Dam
Experience walking on the dam's surface, similar to Kurobe Dam, for a unique perspective.
🏞️ Enjoy the Scenic Drive
The drive to Lake Miboro offers beautiful views that change with the seasons.
🧐 Understand the Name
Miboro can be tricky to pronounce, but it's worth the effort to visit this impressive site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by Miboro Dam's state-of-the-art construction and its stunning natural setting, often describing it as a 'miracle' with lush green fields and crystal-clear water. The sheer size of the rock-fill stones and the impressive scale of the dam are frequently highlighted as surprising and awe-inspiring. While the dam itself is the main draw, the scenic drive around Lake Miboro also garners praise.
"State of the art construction of a very beautiful natural location. Worth visiting. It’s like a miracle. Lush green fields and crystal clear water. Nice road and no rush"
Malik Allah Yar Khan
"Beautiful"
Catatan Kang devi
"June 2024 I had seen the rockfill dam from the Dam Site Park side, but this was the first time I stood on the top of the dam and saw the stonework up close. I was surprised at the size of the stones! They were much bigger than I thought!
You can park your car next to the top of the dam.
Using everyone's reviews, I was able to successfully enter the cave halfway through."
apiko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Miboro Dam is located in Shirakawa Village, Gifu Prefecture. The drive to Lake Miboro is scenic and offers changing seasonal views. Many visitors access it via car, with parking available near the top of the dam. It's also accessible as part of day tours from cities like Nagoya.
While specific public transport routes directly to the dam might be limited, it's often included in organized day tours from nearby cities like Takayama or Kanazawa, making it accessible for those relying on public transport connections.
A bus ride of about 1.5 hours from Kanazawa can bring you to the vicinity of Miboro Dam, especially if you're combining it with a visit to Shirakawa-go.
Yes, driving is a popular option. There is parking available next to the top of the dam, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While not explicitly stated for Miboro Dam itself, similar attractions like Shirakawa-go have parking restrictions for foreigners from 9 AM to 5 PM, so it's wise to check for any specific local advisories.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, visiting the Miboro Dam itself and the surrounding Dam Site Park is free of charge. There are no admission tickets required for the dam structure or the lake views.
Miboro Dam is an outdoor structure and its viewing areas are typically accessible at all times. The nearby museum may have specific operating hours, so it's advisable to check locally.
The Dam Site Park, offering views of the dam, is usually accessible without an entrance fee, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery freely.
Yes, visitors are welcome to walk on top of the dam, offering a unique perspective of its massive rock-fill construction and the vastness of Lake Miboro.
Information on the museum's operating schedule is not widely available online. It's recommended to check local tourism resources or inquire in advance if you plan to visit the museum specifically.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the impressive rock-fill construction of Japan's first such dam, enjoy panoramic views of the vast Lake Miboro, and visit a museum detailing the dam's history and engineering. +1
It's notable for being Japan's first rock-fill dam, completed in 1961, and its immense scale. The surrounding natural beauty and the creation of Lake Miboro add to its appeal.
Absolutely! The dam's unique structure, the expansive lake, and the surrounding natural landscapes offer fantastic photographic opportunities, especially during different seasons.
Miboro Dam stands at a height of 131 meters and is one of the largest rock-fill dams in Japan, creating the extensive Lake Miboro.
While you can walk on top of the dam, direct access inside the dam structure is generally not permitted for public safety reasons. However, a museum nearby details its construction.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options directly at Miboro Dam are limited. It's advisable to plan meals in nearby towns like Takayama or Shirakawa Village, which offer a variety of local Japanese cuisine.
The Dam Site Park and surrounding areas offer scenic spots that are suitable for picnics. Bringing your own food and enjoying the views is a great way to experience the location.
In Shirakawa Village and nearby Takayama, you can find traditional Japanese dishes, including Hida beef, soba noodles, and local specialties.
Cafes are scarce directly at the dam. For refreshments, it's best to stop in the larger towns or villages en route to or from Miboro Dam.
There are typically no convenience stores or snack vendors directly at the dam. It's recommended to purchase any snacks or drinks before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the dam offers a commanding view of Lake Miboro and the surrounding landscape. The Dam Site Park provides excellent vantage points for capturing the dam's scale.
Early mornings often provide soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also yield dramatic shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local aviation rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone near the dam or Lake Miboro.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the dam's scale and the expansive lake. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the rock-fill construction.
The Dam Site Park is frequently mentioned for its good views. Walking along the top of the dam also provides unique perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the novelty of walking on a massive dam and the expansive views of the lake can be captivating for younger visitors. The nearby museum offers a chance to delve deeper into the dam's history, which can be presented in an engaging way for children. Ensure you have snacks and drinks, as amenities directly at the dam are limited.
🚗 Road Trippers & Car Enthusiasts
Car enthusiasts will appreciate the engineering feat of Japan's first rock-fill dam. The ability to park and explore the dam's structure up close offers a unique perspective. Combining a visit to Miboro Dam with nearby attractions like Shirakawa-go or Takayama makes for an excellent multi-day itinerary, showcasing the diverse beauty of the Gifu Prefecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Miboro Dam
Visitors often express awe at the sheer size of the dam, comparing it to other notable Japanese dams like Kurobe Dam. The ability to walk on top of the dam provides an intimate perspective of its robust construction and the engineering challenges overcome. The dam's location in Shirakawa Village, though the lake itself spans into Takayama city, places it within a region known for its natural beauty and traditional Japanese landscapes.
The dam's history is further explored in a nearby museum, offering deeper insights into the planning, construction, and impact of this significant infrastructure project. For those interested in civil engineering or simply appreciating human achievement against a natural backdrop, Miboro Dam is a compelling site. The drive to the dam is also highlighted as a pleasant experience, with the scenery evolving beautifully throughout the seasons.
Experiencing Lake Miboro and its Surroundings
While Miboro Dam itself is the main attraction, its location in Shirakawa Village places it near other significant cultural and natural sites. The village of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional gassho-style houses, is a popular nearby destination. This proximity allows for a combined trip, experiencing both the engineering marvel of the dam and the cultural heritage of the village.
The area around Lake Miboro is ideal for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Whether you're admiring the dam's construction, enjoying the tranquil lake views, or exploring the nearby traditional villages, the Miboro Dam area offers a rich and rewarding travel experience. The drive itself is often cited as a highlight, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit