On May 19, I visited Oshirarika Dam, which was built by damming the Oshirarika River flowing through Uryu Town. This agricultural dam was completed in 1966 (according to the Dam Handbook 2024).
During spring, when snowmelt water is stored, the dam offers a beautiful sight as clear water flows gracefully over the spillway. At the time of my visit, access to the crest road on top of the dam (a prefectural road) was restricted and scheduled to reopen on June 5, so entry was not permitted.
I filmed a short video titled “Spring at Oshirarika Dam” from the lakeside park. Please take a look and enjoy the peaceful scenery of spring in Hokkaido.
2025.05.19 – Spring at Oshirarika Dam | Kawatabi Hokkaido (YouTube)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0sOaJBAGaFQ
On the way to Oshirarika Dam, we spotted a water channel marked “Shokan no Seiryu” (Clear Stream of the Shokan Mountains). Only 2 km to go.
Beyond the overflowing spillway, Mt. Etai-dake can be seen in the distance.
Near the reservoir stands the Tower of Abundance (Hōjō no Tō), symbolizing rich harvests supported by the dam’s water.
In the downstream area, rice planting had already been completed in the paddies. We look forward to another year of delicious rice.
Mapcode for Oshirarika Dam: 763 318 343*85
