Takihata Dam is located in Takihata, Kawachinagano City, Osaka Prefecture. The dam was constructed on the upper reaches of the Ishikawa River, part of the first-class Yamato River water system, and is managed by the Osaka Prefectural Takihata Dam Management Office.
Construction began in 1967, and the dam was completed in 1981. Although its dam body has a curved profile resembling an arch dam, its actual structure is a gravity concrete dam. The dam is 62.0 meters high and is known as the largest dam in Osaka Prefecture.
Takihata Dam is a multipurpose dam serving several important functions.
The dam helps reduce the risk of flood damage in the Ishikawa River basin by regulating water levels.
Stored water is used to provide the water needed for farmland and agricultural areas within the river basin.
The dam also supplies water for daily life in surrounding communities, including Kawachinagano City and Tondabayashi City.
At the same time, the area around Takihata Dam is rich in natural scenery and has become a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Walking trails and campgrounds allow visitors to relax and enjoy the surrounding landscape.
The area surrounding Takihata Dam is characterized by abundant greenery and attracts visitors throughout the year.
From approximately late October to early March, migratory birds arrive in the area. Among them, the elegant Mandarin duck is particularly noteworthy.
The sight of these birds is known as the “Mandarin Ducks of Takihata Dam” and has been selected as one of the New Eight Views of Kawachinagano.
On the right bank downstream from the Takihata Dam embankment are two rock-carved Buddhist statues: a statue of Jizo Bodhisattva and a statue of Kannon Bodhisattva.
These statues were carved by Shoichi Natsume, a resident of Kawachinagano, who is said to have created them single-handedly in the late Taisho period.
The sculptures are notable for both their craftsmanship and the strong religious devotion reflected in their creation.
Upstream from the dam is an area known as the “Forty-Eight Waterfalls of Takihata”, where numerous beautiful waterfalls are scattered through the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The waterfalls have also been selected as one of the Osaka Midori 100, a selection recognizing notable green and natural landscapes in Osaka Prefecture.
Visitors can enjoy the changing scenery of the area throughout the four seasons, from fresh greenery and summer streams to colorful autumn foliage and quiet winter landscapes.
From Kawachinagano Station on the Nankai Koya Line or Kintetsu Nagano Line, take the Hino–Takihata Community Bus bound for Takihata Dam on routes 400, 419, or 419V.
Get off at the Takihata Dam Site bus stop, which is located immediately near the dam.
When traveling by car, use National Route 170, also known as the Osaka Outer Loop Road.
After passing through the Amanosan First Tunnel in Amanocho, Kawachinagano, turn left at the junction and then right at the end of the road to continue toward Takihata Dam.
The route passes near the Kansai Cycle Sports Center, followed by Osaka Prefectural Routes 218 and 61, before reaching Takihata Dam.
The area around Takihata Dam has several facilities where visitors can enjoy spending time in nature, including campgrounds, fishing ponds, and restaurants.
Walking trails are also available, with routes suitable for everyone from beginners to experienced hikers. These trails provide opportunities to enjoy the scenery as it changes with the seasons.
Takihata Dam plays an important role in flood control, irrigation, and the supply of municipal water, while also offering visitors an attractive natural setting.
The surrounding area combines seasonal scenery, migratory birds, rock-carved Buddhist statues, waterfalls, walking trails, and outdoor recreation, making it a place where visitors can experience both the natural and cultural character of southern Osaka.
A visit to Takihata Dam is an opportunity to enjoy the peaceful landscape of the mountains while discovering the history and natural heritage of the Kawachinagano area.