Nunome Dam is a multipurpose dam built across the Nunome River in Kitanoyama-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture. The river is a tributary of the Kizu River, which forms part of the Yodo River system. As one of the dams in the upper Kizu River basin, Nunome Dam plays an important role in flood control, agricultural water supply, and providing tap water to Nara City.
Beyond its essential infrastructure functions, the dam has created Lake Nunome, a scenic reservoir popular for fishing, cycling, running, and outdoor recreation. Surrounded by rolling hills and tranquil countryside, the area offers a refreshing escape from the historic streets and busy attractions of central Nara.
Nunome Dam is a gravity concrete dam standing 72 meters high. An auxiliary rock-fill dam is located on the right bank, but because the two structures are not physically connected, the facility is not classified as a combined dam.
The dam serves three main purposes: flood control, maintaining water supplies for various uses, and providing water for public consumption. Its contribution to Nara City’s municipal water supply makes it an important part of the region’s everyday life, while its flood-control function helps manage water levels in the river system.
Lake Nunome was formed by the construction of Nunome Dam and has become a well-known fishing destination in the Kansai region. Anglers visit the lake to catch species such as largemouth bass, Japanese crucian carp known as herabuna, and wakasagi, or Japanese smelt.
The lakeside road follows the contours of the surrounding hills, with gentle climbs, descents, and curves. These features make it popular with cyclists and runners who use the area for training and recreational exercise.
The combination of open water, green hills, and quiet rural scenery also makes the lake an appealing place to enjoy the outdoors at a relaxed pace.
The Yamazoe Nunome Dam Marathon is held annually on the second Sunday of December. The event offers several categories, including 15-kilometer and 3-kilometer races, as well as a relay competition.
The marathon attracts a wide range of participants, from families and recreational runners to experienced athletes. The scenic lakeside setting adds to the appeal of the event, combining physical activity with the natural beauty of the Nara countryside.
Nunome Dam has served as the finish location for the Nara Stage of the Tour of Japan since 1999.
This professional road cycling race follows a route that starts near the Great Buddha Hall of Todaiji Temple and continues through the surrounding countryside toward the dam. The course combines Nara’s historic heritage with its scenic rural landscapes, making it a distinctive stage of the competition.
The Lake Nunome Cycling Festival is held as a pre-event associated with cycling activities in the area. Designed to be accessible to families and casual cyclists, it encourages visitors to enjoy cycling in a relaxed setting while contributing to local tourism and community activities.
During the 1960s and 1970s, rapid population growth and residential development across the Kansai region increased demand for water and intensified the need for flood control.
A revised basic plan for the Yodo River system was established in 1967, supporting the development of facilities such as Amagase Dam and Takayama Dam. These projects helped improve water management and supply throughout the river basin.
The wider water-resource development program for the Yodo River system had also begun in 1962, leading to the construction of other dams, including Shorenji Dam and Murou Dam.
In 1971, the then Ministry of Construction established an implementation plan for construction works within the Yodo River system. Nunome Dam was included in this broader program, and detailed project investigations began in 1975.
Building Nunome Dam required the submergence of 48 residential properties and approximately 36 hectares of farmland. Local residents initially opposed the project because of its impact on homes, agricultural land, and established communities.
In 1980, the project came under the Water Source Area Special Measures Act, which provided a framework for relocation assistance and regional development measures. After prolonged negotiations, compensation issues were resolved, allowing construction to proceed.
Nunome Dam was completed in 1991. Today, it serves both as an important water-management facility and as the centerpiece of a recreational landscape enjoyed by residents and visitors.
Nunome Dam can be reached by several major road routes.
From National Route 163: Turn toward Kasagi Station on the JR Kansai Main Line via Prefectural Route 4. Cross Kasagiyama, turn left toward Iga at the intersection with National Route 369, and follow the Nunome River upstream.
From the Hanna Road: Follow National Route 369 through the central area of Yagyu, then continue along the route toward the dam.
From National Route 25, the Meihan National Highway: Exit at Yamazoe Interchange and follow Prefectural Route 80 toward Yamazoe Junior High School. After crossing the bridge over Lake Nunome, turn right and continue north along the lakeshore.
Nearby railway stations include Kasagi Station on the JR Kansai Main Line, Nara Station on the JR Yamatoji Line, and Kintetsu-Nara Station on the Kintetsu Nara Line.
Because the dam and surrounding attractions are spread across a rural area, visitors should check local bus services and onward transportation before traveling.
A section of Nara Prefectural Route 25, between Ouchi-cho in Nara City and Kiriyama in Yamazoe Village, is subject to a full-day prohibition on two-wheeled vehicles, including mopeds.
Motorcyclists should check current road regulations and plan their routes accordingly before visiting the area.
The countryside around Nunome Dam contains several attractions that can be combined into a day trip exploring the history and natural scenery of eastern Nara.
Kasagiyama is a historic mountain associated with Emperor Go-Daigo, who is said to have taken refuge there during the Genko Incident in the fourteenth century. Its combination of natural scenery and historical significance makes it an interesting destination for visitors exploring the region.
Tsukigase Plum Grove is a celebrated plum-blossom destination in Nara Prefecture. During the flowering season, the surrounding hills are decorated with plum blossoms, creating a scenic landscape that attracts photographers and nature lovers.
Yagyu is associated with the famous Yagyu family of swordsmen, particularly Yagyu Muneyoshi and Yagyu Munenori. The area’s historical connections with Japanese swordsmanship, traditional landscapes, and quiet rural atmosphere make it a rewarding stop for travelers interested in samurai history.
Combining these attractions with a visit to Nunome Dam provides a varied excursion through the region’s natural landscapes and historical heritage.
Nunome Dam and Lake Nunome offer much more than an impressive piece of infrastructure. The reservoir supports essential water management while providing a beautiful setting for fishing, cycling, running, and seasonal sporting events.
Surrounded by the countryside of Nara Prefecture, the lake is an inviting destination for travelers who want to experience a quieter side of the region. Whether enjoying the lakeside scenery, following a cycling route, or exploring nearby historical sites, visitors can discover a refreshing blend of nature, recreation, and local heritage.