Did the Kajike Dam always look so serene? Completed in 2008, the Kajike Dam doesn’t reveal its true purpose at first glance. It stands as a testament to the ever-present need for flood control in this region. The dam’s location in Hiroshima Prefecture, along the Yachi River, is no accident. Kajike Dam is part of the larger Yachi River flood control plan. This plan aims to protect the developing areas along the river, including nearby Gokaichi town. The dam’s construction, spanning from 1987 to 2008, speaks to the long-term vision of the project. Kajike Dam boasts a height of 49 meters and a crest length of 170 meters. Its gravity design allows it to hold back a significant volume of water. With a total capacity of 1,060,000 cubic meters and a flood control capacity of 650,000 cubic meters, the Kajike Dam is a vital piece of infrastructure. The dam also contributes to the stabilization of existing water resources and the preservation of the river environment. The 3.5 square kilometer catchment area feeds the reservoir. This reservoir, when full, covers a surface area of 8 hectares. So, the next time you look upon the tranquil waters of Kajike Dam, remember its vital role. It’s not just a picturesque spot. It’s a guardian against the unpredictable forces of nature, quietly protecting the communities that thrive along the Ishiuchi River.
芸州廿日市御本陣旧跡
“A castle built on the plain?” you might ask. “Isn’t that a bit…exposed?” And indeed, the Hiroshima Gokoku Jinja, the