Hōheikyō Dam: A Harmony of Engineering and Nature

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Discover Hōheikyō Dam in Sapporo: Where engineering meets nature's beauty, offering panoramic views and a tranquil escape in Jōzankei.

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Hōheikyō Dam

Nestled in the Jōzankei region of Sapporo, Hōheikyō Dam is a concrete arch dam that blends human innovation with Hokkaido's natural beauty. Built on the Toyohira River, the dam provides irrigation, hydroelectric power, and flood control. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views, explore walking paths, and witness the dam's impressive structure.

A brief summary to Hōheikyō Dam

840 Jōzankei, Sapporo, Jōzankei, Minami Ward, Hokkaido, 061-2301, JP
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Monday 9 am-4 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
Thursday 9 am-4 pm
Friday 9 am-4 pm
Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Check the weather forecast before visiting, as conditions in the mountains can change quickly.
Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake while taking in the views.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the walking paths and hiking trails.
Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, especially during peak foliage season in October.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Sapporo Station, take the Jotetsu bus to Jozankei Onsen. The bus ride takes about 1 hour. From Jozankei Onsen, you can take a taxi to Hōheikyō Dam, which costs approximately ¥3,200 - ¥3,900 and takes about 10 minutes. Alternatively, during certain seasons, a shuttle bus ('Hoheikyo Dam Liner') may operate from the Jozankei Tourist Information Center. From the parking lot, a hybrid electric bus is available to take you to the dam for ¥620 (round trip) for adults and ¥300 for children. Children up to 12 years old can ride for free.
Walking

From Jozankei Onsen, it is possible to walk to Hōheikyō Dam. The walk is approximately 9km and takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes. From the parking lot to the dam is about 1 kilometer. You can walk this road, which will take about 20 minutes. The road passes through 2 long tunnels.

Discover more about Hōheikyō Dam

Hōheikyō Dam, located in Sapporo's tranquil Jōzankei area, is a destination for nature lovers and engineering enthusiasts. Completed in 1972, the 102.5-meter-high and 305-meter-long concrete arch dam stands as a testament to the relationship between human innovation and the natural environment. The dam was built on the Toyohira River for irrigation, hydroelectricity, and flood control. As you approach the dam, you're greeted by views of the surrounding mountains and the clear waters of Jozan Lake. The area around Hōheikyō Dam has walking paths for exploring the surroundings. The sound of flowing water and the dam's architecture create a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can picnic along the banks and explore hiking trails. To protect the environment, general vehicles are not allowed from the Hiyamizu Tunnel to the dam. Visitors park at the parking lot before the tunnel and transfer to an electric bus. The electric bus ride takes you to the dam, where you can walk on top for views. The dam releases water between June and October, creating a spectacle. There is a museum with information about the dam and a restaurant with views.