Complete Guide to Hatanagi First Dam Area (Shizuoka Prefecture) | Japan’s Tallest Hollow Gravity Dam and Autumn Foliage/Access Information
Deep in the mountains of Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture, located at the foot of the Southern Japanese Alps, Hatanagi First Dam is a power generation dam that boasts the tallest height among hollow gravity-type concrete dams in Japan. This dam, with a height of 125 meters, once held the distinction of being the world’s tallest and is still known as one of the world’s largest hollow gravity dams.
This article provides a thorough explanation of everything you need to know before visiting, from the appeal of Hatanagi First Dam to autumn foliage information, access methods, and how to obtain dam cards.
Hatanagi First Dam Explained | Basic Information and Characteristics
Dam Basic Specifications
Hatanagi First Dam is a power generation dam operated by Chubu Electric Power Company built on the upper reaches of the Oi River. Completed in Showa 37 (1962), this dam has the following characteristics:
- Type: Hollow gravity-type concrete dam
- Dam height: 125 meters (tallest among hollow gravity dams in Japan)
- Dam crest length: 350.5 meters
- Total storage capacity: Approximately 160 million cubic meters
- Reservoir name: Hatanagi Lake (Hatanagi-ko)
- Location: Tashiro, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture
- Operator: Chubu Electric Power Company
- Completion year: Showa 37 (1962)
What is a Hollow Gravity Dam?
The most distinctive feature of Hatanagi First Dam lies in its unique structure as a “hollow gravity-type concrete dam.” While ordinary gravity dams are filled with concrete throughout their interior, hollow gravity dams feature cavities inside the dam body, reducing concrete usage while maintaining structural strength.
This structure includes windows in the dam body for interior lighting, creating a unique atmosphere even from the outside. The design, which represents the pinnacle of construction technology at the time, is highly valued among dam enthusiasts.
How Pumped-Storage Hydropower Works
Hatanagi First Dam conducts pumped-storage hydropower generation between itself and Hatanagi Second Dam downstream. Using Hatanagi Lake as the upper reservoir and the reservoir of Hatanagi Second Dam as the lower reservoir, the system efficiently pumps water during low-demand hours (such as nighttime) using excess electricity and generates power during peak demand hours.
This power generation method contributes significantly to stable power supply and serves as a crucial power source facility for Chubu Electric Power.
Autumn Foliage Around Hatanagi First Dam | Peak Season and How to Enjoy
Autumn Foliage Peak Season
Hatanagi First Dam area is known as one of Shizuoka Prefecture’s premier autumn foliage spots. Located at an elevation of approximately 1,100 meters and surrounded by the Southern Japanese Alps, the entire area turns vibrant colors in fall.
- Peak season: Late October to early November
- Color change begins: Around mid-October
- Primary tree species: Japanese beech, maple, rowan, birch, etc.
Due to its high elevation, this area experiences autumn foliage season earlier than Shizuoka city center. However, timing may vary depending on weather conditions, so it’s recommended to check the latest foliage status before your visit.
Prime Autumn Foliage Viewing Spots
Views from the Dam Crest
From the top of the dam’s crest, you can see an unobstructed view of the Southern Japanese Alps mountains surrounding Hatanagi Lake. With peaks like Akaishi-dake and Arakawa-dake, which are over 3,000 meters tall, towering in the background, the autumn foliage reflected in the lake’s surface is simply spectacular.
Hatanagi Lake Perimeter Trails
Hiking trails around Hatanagi Lake (the dam reservoir) allow you to enjoy autumn foliage from the lakeside. The colorful trees reflected in the calm lake surface create a truly scenic view.
Combination with the Southern Japanese Alps
The landscape with mountains in the 2,000-meter class looming nearby offers a grandeur unmatched by other autumn foliage spots. The contrast between snow-covered mountain peaks and autumn colors can sometimes be seen, making it ideal for photography.
Tips for Autumn Foliage Photography
Here are some tips for capturing beautiful autumn foliage photos around Hatanagi First Dam:
- Aim for early morning light: The soft morning light beautifully illuminates the autumn colors
- Utilize lake surface reflections: On windless days, the lake surface becomes mirror-like, reflecting the foliage
- Include the dam in your composition: The contrast between the massive dam and autumn foliage creates striking photos
- Use both wide-angle and telephoto lenses: Capture both expansive landscapes and detailed beauty
Access Methods to Hatanagi First Dam
Access by Car
Access to Hatanagi First Dam is primarily by private vehicle. However, the route passes through mountainous terrain requiring careful driving.
From Shizuoka City Center
- Head north on National Route 362 from Shizuoka city center
- Go via Ikawa Lake and turn onto Prefectural Road 60 (South Alps Park Road)
- Pass through Hatanagi Second Dam and continue to Hatanagi First Dam
- Travel time: Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours (approximately 90 km)
Important Notes
- Roads beyond Hatanagi First Dam are restricted to non-general vehicles
- Winter closures occur from late November to late April
- The road is narrow with many curves requiring cautious driving
- The Ikawa area is the last gas station; be sure to refuel
Public Transportation Access
Bus Routes
Limited bus service runs from Shizuoka Station toward Hatanagi First Dam, though service is extremely limited.
- Operator: Shizutetsu Just Line
- Departure: JR Shizuoka Station
- Travel time: Approximately 3.5 hours
- Service period: Primarily during climbing season (confirm details beforehand)
Bus schedules vary by season, so strong advance confirmation with the operator is recommended.
Parking Information
Parking spaces are available around Hatanagi First Dam, but congestion may occur during autumn foliage and climbing seasons. Especially on weekends and holidays, aim for early arrival.
Hatanagi First Dam as a Southern Japanese Alps Climbing Gateway
Major Climbing Routes
Hatanagi First Dam is known as an important climbing gateway to the southern section of the Southern Japanese Alps. Several famous peaks have routes beginning here:
Akaishi-dake (3,120m)
Called the leader of the southern Southern Japanese Alps, this is a Japanese Top 100 Peak. The standard route from Hatanagi First Dam goes via Sawarashima.
Arakawa-dake (3,141m)
The collective name for Arakawa’s three peaks (front, middle, and east peaks), this mountain area boasts some of the Southern Japanese Alps’ most beautiful ridgelines.
Hijiri-dake (3,013m)
One of the southern Southern Japanese Alps’ Japanese Top 100 Peaks. Deep primeval forest and alpine plants are its attractions.
Services for Climbers
Shuttle buses operated by Tokai Forest transport climbers from Hatanagi First Dam to climbing gateways (Sawarashima, Niken Cottage, etc.). Since general vehicles are prohibited, climbers must use this shuttle service.
- Service period: Early June to early November (varies yearly)
- Reservation: Advance reservation required (contact Tokai Forest)
- Fare: Varies by distance
How to Obtain Dam Cards
Distribution Locations and Hours
Hatanagi First Dam cards are distributed at the following location:
Distribution Location
- Facility name: Hatanagi First Dam Management Office (or designated distribution facility)
- Address: Near 1110-5 Tashiro, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture
- Distribution hours: Daytime on weekdays (confirm details)
Important Notes for Obtaining Dam Cards
The distribution location is typically about 8 minutes by car from Hatanagi First Dam, requiring the following attention:
- Visit confirmation required: To prove you actually visited Hatanagi First Dam, present photos of the dam taken with a digital camera or mobile phone, or be prepared to describe the surrounding landscape you saw that day.
- Confirm distribution hours: Distribution is weekdays only or during limited hours, so advance confirmation is recommended.
- Winter distribution suspension: Card distribution is suspended during road closure periods.
Nearby Attractions to Enjoy Together
Ikawa Lake (Ikawa Dam)
Located along the route to Hatanagi First Dam, Ikawa Lake is the largest reservoir on the Oi River. With attractions including the boat crossing on the lake and the Rainbow Bridge along the shore, this is also full of points of interest.
Hatanagi Second Dam
Located just downstream of Hatanagi First Dam, this sister dam is also a hollow gravity-type dam functioning as the lower reservoir for pumped-storage generation. Seeing both together provides deeper understanding.
Sumata Gorge Hot Spring
A secluded hot spring located along the Sumata River, a tributary of the Oi River. The Dream Suspension Bridge famous for its emerald-green lake surface is well-known. Combining this with Hatanagi First Dam for a 1-2 day trip is also recommended.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting
Safety Considerations
- Check road conditions: Mountain terrain can become dangerous in poor weather
- Winter closure: Roads are closed from late November to late April
- Mobile phone coverage: Signal may not reach certain areas
- Bear activity: This is bear habitat in the Southern Japanese Alps foothills. Take measures like carrying bear bells
- Temperature differences: Higher elevation means lower temperatures than lowlands. Bring warm clothing
Manners and Environmental Protection
- Always take trash with you: Be thorough in taking all trash home to protect this natural area
- Respect no-entry zones: Some dam facility areas are off-limits
- Plant collection prohibited: Plant collection is prohibited within the Southern Japanese Alps National Park
- Be considerate of noise: Keep voices low and avoid music to maintain the quiet environment
Four Seasons Around Hatanagi First Dam
Spring (May-June)
As snow melts, fresh greenery emerges, and surrounding mountains turn vibrant green. The contrast between snow-covered peaks of the Southern Japanese Alps and new greenery is beautiful.
Summer (July-August)
Peak climbing season. High elevation means cool temperatures even in summer. Deep green forests, blue skies, and clear lake waters are appealing.
Autumn (September-November)
The autumn foliage season from late October to early November is the most popular time. The mountains turn red and yellow throughout, offering the year’s most vivid scenery.
Winter (December-April)
Though road closures prevent general vehicle access, the silent snow-covered landscape is exceptional. While winter access is limited, visiting during this season holds its own appeal.
Photography Spots and Best Timing
Recommended Photography Spots
- Dam crest: Classic spot overlooking Hatanagi Lake and the Southern Japanese Alps
- Dam downstream side: Captures the impressive 125-meter dam height
- Lakeside trails: Photograph autumn foliage and mountains reflected in the water
- Near lighting windows: Compositions including the hollow gravity dam’s distinctive windows are popular
Best Photography Timing
- Morning: Mountains lit by sunrise and calm lake surface
- Midday: Blue sky and autumn foliage contrast
- Evening: Southern Japanese Alps mountains bathed in sunset
Lodging and Dining Information
Nearby Accommodations
No lodging facilities exist near Hatanagi First Dam itself; stay in the Ikawa area or Shizuoka city center.
Ikawa Area
- Several small inns and traditional lodges featuring simple mountain cuisine
- About 1 hour by car to the dam
Shizuoka City Center
- Abundant hotels and traditional inns
- About 3 hours by car to the dam
Dining and Supply
No restaurants or shops exist near Hatanagi First Dam. Prepare food and beverages in advance. The Ikawa area is the last supply point.
Summary | The Appeal of Hatanagi First Dam
Hatanagi First Dam is a valuable Shizuoka Prefecture attraction combining technological value as Japan’s tallest hollow gravity dam, its role as a southern Southern Japanese Alps climbing gateway, and the natural beauty of a premier autumn foliage site.
Though access is time-consuming due to its remote mountain location, this remoteness offers a grandeur and silence known only to those who visit. The autumn foliage beauty is particularly exceptional, making it a worthwhile destination.
Whether you’re a dam enthusiast, climbing lover, autumn foliage hunter, or nature photographer, Hatanagi First Dam continues to captivate diverse visitors. Why not visit this magnificent scenery nestled at the foot of the Southern Japanese Alps on your next day off?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I visit Hatanagi First Dam year-round?
No, roads to Hatanagi First Dam are closed during winter (typically late November to late April). Access is possible from around early May to mid-November. Since closure periods vary with weather conditions, check current information with road management authorities or local government before visiting.
Q2: Can I get a dam card at the dam itself?
Hatanagi First Dam cards are obtained at a distribution site about 8 minutes by car from the dam. The distribution site requires proof of your visit, either by showing photos of the dam taken with a digital or mobile phone camera, or by describing the surrounding landscape you observed that day. Distribution hours are daytime on weekdays, so confirm in advance.
Q3: When is the autumn foliage peak season?
Autumn foliage peak season around Hatanagi First Dam typically runs from late October to early November. Due to its 1,100-meter elevation, it experiences foliage season earlier than Shizuoka city center. Color changes begin around mid-October, with Japanese beech, maples, rowan, and birch displaying beautiful colors. Since timing varies with yearly weather patterns, check current foliage status before visiting.
Q4: Can I drive beyond Hatanagi First Dam?
Beyond Hatanagi First Dam, general vehicles are prohibited. To reach climbing gateways like Sawarashima or Niken Cottage in the Southern Japanese Alps, use the reservation-based shuttle buses operated by Tokai Forest. These buses run during climbing season (early June to early November) and require advance reservation.
Q5: Can beginners drive there?
The route to Hatanagi First Dam passes through mountainous terrain with narrow roads and many curves, making it difficult for less confident drivers. The 3 to 3.5-hour trip from Shizuoka city center passes few gas stations (Ikawa area is the last). If unsure about driving, consider public transportation (bus routes), though bus frequency is extremely limited requiring advance schedule confirmation.
Q6: Are there restaurants nearby?
No restaurants or shops exist near Hatanagi First Dam. Prepare food and beverages in advance. The Ikawa area is the nearest supply point where you should purchase necessary items. Remember to take all trash with you.
Q7: Will my mobile phone work?
Hatanagi First Dam’s remote mountain location has areas without mobile phone coverage. Since emergency communication options may be limited, plan your activities in advance and inform family or friends of your destination and expected return time.
Q8: Is there danger of encountering bears?
Hatanagi First Dam area sits in the Southern Japanese Alps foothills, habitat for Asian black bears. Special caution is needed during early morning and evening, and on mountain trails. Take precautions like carrying bear bells, traveling in groups, and managing food carefully. If you encounter a bear, quietly leave the area; never shout loudly or run.
