0000-Meiji Water Headworks

Location: Suigen-cho, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture

View of the top edge from the right bank

A headworks is a water intake facility for agricultural use, and the Meiji Water Headworks is 14.5 m high, so it is not a "dam" in the strict sense (as defined by the River Law), but I thought I would include it.

To reach the Meiji Water Headworks, turn east at the Toyota-cho intersection on Route 248, turn right at the Hirayamacho intersection, and go straight. The top end of the bridge is open to cars as a water source bridge, but it is prohibited to enter from the left bank of the Yahagi River (reverse one-way traffic), so cars should enter from the right bank. The road is quite narrow. If you look aside, you may hit the parapet...

View of the levee from the downstream side of the right bank

There are seven roller gates in the flood discharge, four roller gates in the sediment discharge, six through gates in the auxiliary intake works, and one floating gate in the flood discharge and one square drop gate in the sediment discharge as spare parts.

View of the levee from the downstream side of the right bank

There is also a fish passage, and ayu are said to be coming up during the season. Moreover, Toyota City officials set up a tent on the left bank of the river and count the ayu fish every day using a counter. I learned about this after the interview, so I was not able to meet them, but it must be hard work for the public servants.

dam characteristics

Other facilities/observations

Near the headworks is a large park called Suigen Park. It is famous for its cherry blossoms. I think it was lit up at night.