In the Isawa region of Oshu, Iwate Prefecture, there are many places where you can feel the abundance of nature and witness how the gift of water supports the local people’s lives. For today’s issue of the Kitakami Times, we traveled there to learn how the water is used, and how it adds to the region’s appeal.

First, we visited the cylindrical water diversion works in Tokusuien Park. Water rushes out of this large, circular facility with immense force, creating a sight so stunning we inadvertently stopped walking to stare at it. The facility was built to distribute water for irrigation evenly between each region, so it plays an important role supporting the Isawa Plain’s agricultural industry. But its tremendous cascade of water and beautiful circular structure add spectacle to that functionality, making it a popular sightseeing spot.

The water that flows through this facility all originates from the Isawa Dam, known for being one of the largest rock-fill dams in Japan. The view of Oshu Lake and the Yakeishi Mountain Range from the dam observation point is truly incredible, with a landscape that you can enjoy in every season as it transforms throughout the year. When you look down at the dam from above, you’ll be shocked by the massive scale of the structure, and when you look up at it from below, you can feel firsthand the impressive power of the many stacked rocks that form it. This majestic sight, born from nature and human engineering, is well worth the visit.

Just next to the dam, you’ll also find the Oshu Lake Glocal Center. In this building, you can learn all about the history of Isawa Dam, Oshu Lake, and the Isawa region in general, and how the local water connects to the residents’ lifestyles. It also often acts as a base for tourist information and guidance about the nature found in the area. Depending on the season, you can enjoy the outdoors in Isawa another way too: the Glocal Center offers a variety of activities including rafting, canoeing, and standup paddleboarding, whether on the gentle surface of the lake or through the powerful rush of the Isawa River.

If you head to the foot of the dam, you’ll arrive at the Oshu Isawa Canoe Grounds. Lined with gates through the river rapids, the course packs an impressive punch, and is also accessible for up-close viewing by spectators. This way, the grounds both make the most of the river’s current, and become a place to spread the fun of this characteristically Isawa sport.

If you head to the foot of the dam, you’ll arrive at the Oshu Isawa Canoe Grounds. Lined with gates through the river rapids, the course packs an impressive punch, and is also accessible for up-close viewing by spectators. This way, the grounds both make the most of the river’s current, and become a place to spread the fun of this characteristically Isawa sport.

The water of the Isawa region not only supports agriculture and daily life, but also provides opportunities for tourism, sports, and leisure activities. Through our journey from the cylindrical water diversion works to Isawa Dam, Oshu Lake and Koromo Falls, we rediscovered the beauty of this region that has developed alongside its water. Please try visiting for yourself to experience this beautiful, unique landscape where water and nature interweave.