Tucked deep in the mountains of Sapporo’s scenic Jozankei area, Hoheikyo Dam is a stunning blend of modern engineering and natural beauty. Completed in 1972, the dam was built to control flooding, generate hydroelectric power, and secure a stable water supply for the growing city of Sapporo.
Hoheikyo Dam – Key Specifications and Details
- Type:
→ Concrete arch dam - Height (Depth from crest to base):
→ 102.5 meters / 336 feet - Width at crest (diameter-like span across the top):
→ 280 meters / approx. 918 feet - Crest elevation:
→ 510 meters above sea level
Lake Jozan – Reservoir Capacity & Area
- Total Storage Capacity:
→ 47,100,000 cubic meters (47.1 million m³) - Reservoir Surface Area:
→ 150 hectares (approx. 370 acres or 1.5 km²) - Catchment Area:
→ 104 km² (area of land draining into the reservoir)
Standing 102.5 meters tall and spanning 280 meters wide, this majestic arch dam holds back the emerald waters of Lake Jozan, framed by steep cliffs and dense forest. It's especially famous for its breathtaking autumn foliage—making it one of the top fall destinations in Hokkaido. Snow Monkeys Resorts offers a tour to Hoheikyo Dam all four seasons, but guests are strongly encouraged to book this tour in autumn for stunning autumn foliage! We are here to help you arrange a smooth seamless sight seeing tour to this location.
Discover the perfect mix of nature, serenity, and scenic beauty with a walk along the stunning trails of Hoheikyo Dam. This peaceful area offers breathtaking views of forested mountains, a deep emerald reservoir, and one of Japan’s most picturesque dams—especially vibrant during autumn foliage season. Surrounded by steep mountain slopes, the area bursts into vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold—creating a dramatic contrast with the turquoise reservoir waters.
The comfortable stroll (along both the Dam Loop Trail & Dam Crest Walk) are safe and provide paved paths that offer at any point, panoramic viewpoints that make for incredible photos. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation, fresh air, and natural beauty without strenuous hiking.
Visitors can reach the dam via a quiet, eco-friendly electric shuttle bus, adding to the peaceful, protected atmosphere. Observation decks offer panoramic views of the lake and mountains, while nearby Hoheikyo Onsen provides the perfect place to relax and have a hot bath after your visit to the dam.
Looking to join a tour to the Hoheikyo Dam?
Immerse yourself in Hokkaido's natural beauty with our seasonal Hoheikyo Tour. Starting from Sapporo, you'll first journey to the breathtaking Hoheikyo Dam—a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. After exploring the dam, you'll be brought to Hoheikyo Onsen, where you can relax in a natural outdoor hot spring bath surrounded by beautiful forest scenery. Ideal for those hunting Japan's koyo fall colors, we highly recommend visiting in the autumn when you'll be treated to a stunning panorama of crimson and amber foliage reflecting off the dam's turquoise reservoir.
Operating all-year-round, our Hokkaido Tours are led by a locally based native English speaking tour guide who will escort you to both the dam and Hoheikyo Onsen.
So, what are you waiting for? Snow Monkey Resorts is here and ready to help you explore Hoheikyo all year but especially in autumn. This tour and ALL Snow Monkey Resorts Hokkaido tours are fun, interactive, and family-friendly. For more information, or to book a tour, click on the banner above. We look forward to helping you arrange your tour and to answer any questions you may have.