Hoheikyo Dam｜What to See & Do｜HOKKAIDO LOVE! -Hokkaido Official Tourism Site

Hoheikyo Dam

Thunderous Water Releases and Brilliant Autumn Leaves

A dynamic scenic destination near Sapporo where a massive arch dam meets the changing beauty of seasonal foliage.

Located about 7 km upstream from Jozankei Onsen, Hoheikyo Dam is a concrete arch dam rising 102.5 meters high and stretching 305 meters across. From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the massive structure and the quiet reservoir below. During certain periods of the year, scheduled water releases create a spectacular display as torrents cascade down with a thunderous roar, sending a cool spray into the air.

The surrounding forest changes dramatically with the seasons and has been selected among Japan's “100 Forests for Water Conservation” and “100 Selected Dam Lakes.” In autumn, the mountains are transformed by brilliant shades of red and yellow, making Hoheikyo one of Hokkaido's most celebrated fall foliage destinations. As an essential water source supporting Sapporo, the river also shares a deep connection with the city, whose name is believed, according to one theory, to derive from the Ainu phrase Sat Poro Pet (“large, dry river”).

Hoheikyo Dam is also known for its early environmental initiatives, having introduced electric vehicles as early as 1976, allowing visitors to experience nature while helping preserve the surrounding environment.