Hoheikyo Dam is a spectacular arch concrete dam in Jozankei, southern Sapporo. Completed in 1972, the dam rises 102.5 meters and plays an important role in supplying water to Sapporo. Its immense scale, dramatic rock cliffs, and surrounding forests make it one of the most impressive scenic destinations in the Jozankei area.
The reservoir created by the dam is known as Jozan Lake. Surrounded by steep rocky slopes and dense natural forests, the lake forms a beautiful landscape that changes throughout the seasons. The area is particularly famous in autumn, when colorful foliage is reflected on the surface of the reservoir.
Hoheikyo Dam is an arch-type concrete dam measuring 102.5 meters in height and approximately 305 meters in length. Its curved structure is designed to transfer the pressure of the reservoir water into the surrounding rock, creating the characteristic elegant arch that visitors can appreciate from the surrounding viewpoints.
The dam was planned as an important infrastructure project supporting agriculture and regional development in Hokkaido. A basic plan was prepared in 1957, construction began in 1965, and the project was completed approximately seven years later in 1972. At the time of its completion, it attracted attention as one of Japan’s largest arch dams.
The area around the dam is enclosed by steep rock slopes, creating a dramatic mountain landscape. Water released from the dam adds another powerful element to the scenery, while the reservoir and surrounding forests create a peaceful contrast to the massive concrete structure.
Autumn is especially popular, as the mountains surrounding Jozan Lake turn shades of red, orange, yellow, and gold. In spring, fresh green foliage brings a softer atmosphere, while summer offers cool mountain scenery and refreshing air.
There is more to see around Hoheikyo Dam than the dam itself. Visitors can enjoy viewpoints, a scenic restaurant located partway up the mountain, and a lift-style sightseeing vehicle that leads toward an observation deck.
Kamui Nisei Bridge provides access to a walkway across the dam, while Kudan Falls is another scenic feature along the route. Together, the dam, lake, waterfalls, bridges, forest, and mountain viewpoints create a varied sightseeing experience.
Hoheikyo Dam is located within Shikotsu-Toya National Park, and ordinary vehicles, motorcycles, and bicycles are prohibited from entering the approximately 2-kilometer road between the dam entrance and the dam throughout the year as part of environmental protection measures.
Visitors can continue on foot or use the electric bus. The walking path takes approximately 30 minutes one way from the parking area to the dam. Along the way, visitors can enjoy Kudan Falls and observe a variety of plants that change with the seasons.
This restriction helps preserve the natural environment and also makes the final approach to the dam a pleasant part of the sightseeing experience rather than simply a transfer between a parking lot and an attraction.
The natural surroundings offer opportunities to enjoy the landscape at a slower pace. Depending on conditions and local operations, visitors can experience activities such as canoeing and boating on the reservoir, as well as hiking and trekking along the surrounding trails.
Winter brings snow-covered scenery and opportunities for snowshoe walks. Because conditions in the mountains can change quickly, visitors should check seasonal access and activity conditions before setting out.
Hoheikyo Dam lies within a protected natural environment, and conservation is an important part of managing the area. Cleanup activities and environmental programs help protect the forests and waterways around the dam, while visitors are encouraged to enjoy the landscape responsibly.
Hoheikyo Dam combines impressive engineering with the beauty of Hokkaido’s mountain landscape. The 102.5-meter arch dam, tranquil reservoir, steep cliffs, waterfalls, forests, and seasonal foliage create a destination where infrastructure and nature exist side by side.
Its particularly beautiful autumn scenery makes it a popular destination during the foliage season, while the surrounding attractions offer reasons to visit at other times of year as well. After exploring the dam and its mountain scenery, travelers can continue to the nearby Jozankei area and enjoy its famous hot springs.
Electric bus operation hours
8:45 - 16:00
Electric bus operation period
May 1 - November 3
Free of charge
Electric bus fare
Round trip:
Adults 700 yen (junior high school students and older)
Child 350 yen (elementary school student)
One way:
Adult 400 yen (junior high school student and older)
Child: 200 yen (elementary school student)
From Sapporo, drive National Route 230 toward Jozankei Onsen and Nakayama Pass for about 60 minutes (33km). After passing Jozankei Onsen Town, turn left at the intersection of Toyohirakyo Onsen Entrance when you see the sign for the entrance of the dam. Then go straight and park your car at the cold water parking lot and board the electric bus.
Shuttle buses from Jozankei Onsen and Toyohirakyo Onsen are also available.