Shimagawa Dam: A Blue Jewel in Gunma's Mountains
Discover the mesmerizing 'Shima Blue' at Shimagawa Dam, a stunning blend of engineering and natural beauty in the heart of Gunma's mountains.
Nestled in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture, Shimagawa Dam is a concrete gravity dam that creates the stunning Lake Okushima, known for its mesmerizing 'Shima Blue' waters. Completed in 1999, the dam serves as a multi-purpose facility for flood control, power generation, and water utilization, while also offering breathtaking views and recreational opportunities.
A brief summary to Shimagawa Dam
- Shima, 4400−28, Nakanojo, 4400 Shima, Agatsuma District, Gunma, 377-0601, JP
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit in the morning for the best lighting and clearest views of the 'Shima Blue'.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as the lake's color is most vibrant on sunny days.
- Consider visiting during the autumn months to witness the stunning contrast of the blue waters against the fiery red and gold foliage.
- If you're interested in a dam tour, book well in advance and be prepared for a Japanese-language experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and the unique 'Shima Blue'.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Nakanojo Station, take the Azuma sightseeing bus bound for Shima Onsen. The bus ride takes approximately 45 minutes. From Shima Onsen bus stop, it is about 15 minutes by car to Shimagawa Dam and Lake Okushima. Bus fare from Nakanojo Station to Shima Onsen is around ¥770. A taxi from Shima Onsen bus stop to the dam will cost approximately ¥2,000-¥3,000.
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Car
From Nakanojo, follow Route 353 towards Shima Onsen. Continue past Shima Onsen following signs for Lake Okushima and Shimagawa Dam. The drive from Shima Onsen to the dam is approximately 15 minutes. Parking is available around Lake Okushima. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is free.
Discover more about Shimagawa Dam
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
温泉グランピング シマブルー(Shima Blue Cafe)
0.8 km
Discover the serene Shima Blue Cafe, a cozy cottage retreat in Nakanojo, perfect for enjoying local delicacies amidst stunning natural beauty.
Shima Tamura
1.3 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Shima Tamura, a traditional Japanese inn offering a unique blend of comfort, culture, and relaxation in the heart of Gunma.
Shima Grand Hotel
1.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Shima Grand Hotel, where traditional Japanese hospitality meets modern comfort amidst the stunning landscapes of Gunma Prefecture.
Sekizenkan Kashoutei
1.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and traditional charm of Sekizenkan Kashoutei, a Japanese inn with exquisite hot springs and an authentic culinary experience.
Shima Onsen
1.4 km
Discover the tranquility of Shima Onsen, where serene hot springs meet breathtaking natural beauty in Japan's Agatsuma District.
Kashiwaya Café
1.5 km
Experience the best of local flavors at Kashiwaya Café, where exceptional coffee meets delectable cakes in a cozy Nakanojo setting.
Toshimaya
1.8 km
Discover tranquility and traditional Japanese hospitality at Toshimaya, a scenic inn in Nakanojo, Gunma Prefecture, where nature meets culture.
Shima Yamaguchikan
1.8 km
Experience authentic Japanese hospitality at Shima Yamaguchikan, a traditional inn in the serene Agatsuma District of Gunma, Japan.
Kashiwaya Ryokan
2.4 km
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Naeba Ski Resort
10.6 km
Experience world-class skiing and snowboarding at Naeba Ski Resort, easily accessible from Tokyo and offering fun for all skill levels.
Nakanojomachi Sight Seeing Information Center
13.1 km
Explore the charm of Nakanojo at the Sight Seeing Information Center, your gateway to Gunma's rich culture and stunning landscapes.
Kusatsu Hot spring Tourist Association.
18.5 km
Your information center for exploring Kusatsu Onsen, one of Japan's most famous hot spring resorts, offering guidance, maps, and event details.
Lockheart Castle
19.8 km
Discover the magic of Lockheart Castle, a fairy tale theme park in Japan's Agatsuma District, blending medieval charm with family-friendly attractions.
Highest Point of Japan’s National Routes
22.3 km
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日本最高所 水準点標石 (No.10809)
22.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Shima Hinatami Park
0.1 km
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Lake Okushima
0.6 km
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Shima Onsen Public Baths
2.5 km
Experience traditional Japanese hot springs at Shima Onsen Public Baths, a serene and therapeutic escape in Gunma's natural beauty.
Shima potholes
3.7 km
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Musical Road – “Always with Me” (Spirited Away OST)
5.3 km
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Shima Lake
7.9 km
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Okky Museum
16.8 km
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Yubatake
18.4 km
Experience the therapeutic waters and captivating atmosphere of Yubatake, the iconic 'hot water field' at the heart of Kusatsu Onsen.
Kusatsu Onsen Netsunoyu
18.5 km
Discover the healing powers of Kusatsu Onsen Netsunoyu, a top Japanese hot spring destination surrounded by natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Sainokawara Open-Air Bath
19.0 km
Immerse yourself in nature at Kusatsu Onsen's iconic open-air bath, offering a therapeutic and scenic hot spring experience.
Mount Kusatsu-Shirane
23.6 km
Explore the breathtaking views and unique geothermal wonders at Mount Kusatsu-Shirane, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Japan.
Zuishoan
24.6 km
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Kokuya Ryokan
25.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and traditional charm of Kokuya Ryokan in Ikaho, Gunma - a perfect blend of relaxation and Japanese culture.
Yuzawa
26.6 km
Experience the magic of Yuzawa: a premier winter destination in Niigata, offering skiing, hot springs, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Fudo Falls
26.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Hinatami-Kan Ryokan
0.7 km
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Maya
0.9 km
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Kaneichi Hanare
1.2 km
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Shima Terrace
1.5 km
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JUPITER’s kitchen
1.5 km
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Sosuian
1.6 km
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Ichiriki Sushi
1.9 km
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Oshokujidokoro Nakasato
23.9 km
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Chalet Christiania
24.6 km
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Restaurant Kitaguni
25.8 km
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Sumibi Yakitori Ikeya
26.6 km
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Uonuma Cuisine Murangozzo
26.7 km
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Vitraux
26.7 km
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Echigo tsuke men (ishin) Yuzawa gan gidoori-ten
26.7 km
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Fukuwarai
26.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
BOO SPORTS かぐら・みつまた店
21.9 km
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SNOW WOOD Angel
23.9 km
Discover unparalleled winter adventures at SNOW WOOD Angel, your premier ski shop in Yuzawa, Japan - where skiing dreams come true!
Hotel Angel Grandia Echigo Nakazato
23.9 km
Experience the perfect getaway at Hotel Angel Grandia Echigo Nakazato, where luxury meets the natural beauty of Yuzawa, Japan.
nMaYa
26.7 km
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CoCoLoYuzawa Gangidori
26.8 km
Discover the vibrant CoCoLoYuzawa Gangidori, a shopping mall that combines retail therapy with delicious ramen dining in the heart of Yuzawa, Japan.
Ippon Sugi Ski Resort
26.8 km
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SOUQ越後湯沢
26.9 km
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青達雪具 CHENDA RENTAL(チェンダスキーレンタル)
26.9 km
Discover winter adventures with top-notch ski and costume rentals at CHENDA RENTAL in Yuzawa, a gateway to Japan's stunning snow-covered landscapes.
ビアラボ ジョークン Beer Labo Jokun
26.9 km
Experience exceptional craft beers and the warmth of Japanese hospitality at Beer Labo Jokun in Yuzawa, a brewpub for all beer lovers.
Yuzawa Kogen Ski Resort
27.1 km
Experience the thrill of skiing and the beauty of winter at Yuzawa Kogen Ski Resort, a top destination for snow lovers in Japan.
Sierra Resort Yuzawa
27.2 km
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Botanical Café THE SPOT
27.2 km
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Benri Ski Rentals Nunoba Shop
27.4 km
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Snow Monkey Resorts Info & Gift Shop
30.2 km
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Uonuma Sweets Garden NATURA
32.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ryokan & Cafe Little Japan Echigo
16.6 km
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Little Japan Echigo
16.6 km
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越後湯沢 農家レストラン縁
26.4 km
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Sansan Yuzawa -Backpackers-
26.9 km
Experience authentic Japanese hospitality at Sansan Yuzawa, the perfect backpacker's guest house in the breathtaking Yuzawa region.
Music Bar 1800/ミュージックバー1800 越後湯沢
26.9 km
Dive into the electrifying vibe of Music Bar 1800 in Yuzawa, where live music and sports come together for an unforgettable night out.
地酒bar 山新
27.0 km
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SWINGBAR
27.0 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Yuzawa at SWINGBAR, where unique cocktails and lively music await you.
helmsdale karuizawa
43.0 km
Experience the finest fish and chips in Karuizawa at Helmsdale, a perfect blend of casual dining and gastropub charm.
Tap That!
46.9 km
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Peppermint Blues
46.9 km
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End Bar
46.9 km
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Drop Off Bar
47.0 km
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Madarao Jazzy
47.0 km
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The Sundeck
47.1 km
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The Avenue - Restaurant & Bar
47.2 km
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