Taisetsu Dam

Taisetsu Dam is located about 15km from Sounkyo Onsenkyo. Driving is the most common way to access it, as public transport options are limited in this remote area of Daisetsuzan National Park. Be prepared for a scenic drive through Hokkaido's natural landscapes.

Public transport to Taisetsu Dam is very limited. It's best to plan your visit with a car. If relying on public transport, you would likely need to reach Sounkyo Onsenkyo first and then arrange for a taxi or local transport, which may be difficult to find.

Sounkyo Onsenkyo is the closest notable area to Taisetsu Dam, located about 15km away. Obihiro is a larger city further south, and Kitami is to the east, but both are significantly further and represent the direction of the next major convenience store.

From the Obihiro direction, you'll drive towards Daisetsuzan National Park. The dam is situated at the uppermost reaches of the Ishikari River. Roads around the dam lake offer a pleasant driving experience.

Taisetsu Dam is approximately 15 kilometers away from Sounkyo Onsenkyo, making it a relatively short drive for those exploring the national park.

No, there are no admission tickets required to visit Taisetsu Dam. It is an outdoor attraction within Daisetsuzan National Park, and you can explore the area freely.

Taisetsu Dam itself is accessible at all times. However, the dam management branch office, where you can collect dam cards, operates from 8:30 AM to 5:15 PM daily.

There is no entrance fee to visit Taisetsu Dam. Access to the dam and its surrounding scenic areas is free of charge.

While the dam structure is visible at night, it is not recommended for safety reasons due to its remote location and lack of lighting. The management office also closes at 5:15 PM.

Dam cards are available on a self-service basis at the Taisetsu Dam management branch office. They are distributed between 8:30 AM and 5:15 PM.

You can admire the rockfill dam structure, enjoy the views of Lake Daisetsu, and take in the surrounding natural beauty of Daisetsuzan National Park. It's also a great spot to pick up a dam card and enjoy a picnic.

Taisetsu Dam is a rockfill dam, meaning its body is constructed from compacted earth and rock rather than concrete. It was completed in 1975 and serves multiple purposes including flood control, water supply, and power generation.

The reservoir capacity of Taisetsu Dam is approximately 96,300,000 cubic meters, making it the third largest reservoir in Hokkaido.

Yes, there is a management office where you can get dam cards, and an uncovered seating area. Parking is also available. Remember to take your trash with you.

On clear days, you can see impressive mountain peaks like Mt. Ishikari and Mt. Otofuke. The dam lake, Lake Daisetsu, is also a scenic feature.

Capture the dam's impressive rockfill structure against the backdrop of Daisetsuzan National Park. The scenic drive along Lake Daisetsu also offers beautiful photographic opportunities. Don't forget to photograph your collected dam card!

Mornings in May often offer clearer views of the surrounding mountains, providing excellent conditions for photography. However, the natural beauty is present throughout the day.

Drone usage regulations can vary, especially within national parks. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the dam management office regarding drone operation policies before flying.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the dam and the surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating mountain peaks on clearer days. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing smooth water.

The unique aspect is the dam's integration with nature. Photographing the dam as a harmonious part of the landscape, rather than an imposing structure, can yield striking images. The dam card itself can also be a fun photo subject.