Hakusui Dam
The Hakusui Dam was built along the Ono River in 1938 to solve irrigation issues that had long hampered farming in Taketa. Erosion had caused local rivers to flow in ravines from which it was difficult to draw water, and farmers had to undertake the arduous task of maintaining irrigation canals between the rivers’ distant upper reaches and their fields. The dam rectified these problems and still helps maintain a steady water supply for farms. The dam’s sole purpose is irrigation—at 14 meters high and just under 90 meters wide, it is much smaller and more intricate than most dams used to generate electricity.
Curves and steps on the edges of the dam control the speed of the water to prevent erosion farther down the river. As the water flows over the center of the structure, it appears white—hence the name Hakusui, or “white water.” Due to its ingenious engineering and aesthetic beauty, the dam has been designated an Important Cultural Property.
The most popular time to visit the dam is in autumn, when the seasonal foliage colors the surrounding hillsides shades of red and yellow. The peaceful sight and sound of the dam’s flowing water can be enjoyed from an open area near the parking lot. Note that the dam is about a 30-minute drive from central Taketa and cannot be reached by public transport.
