"Mori to Mizu in Tsunatori" is an immersive experience held to celebrate the "Forest and Lake Season" (July 21–31) designated by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Set around the Tsunatori Dam in Morioka, Iwate Prefecture, this event offers a chance to learn about dam structures and refresh your mind through contact with nature.
Highlights & Activities
The main highlight is the special tour inside the dam body, an area usually closed to the public. You can experience the massive scale and engineering of the dam up close. Various programs are also available to enjoy the great outdoors:
*Dam Facility Tour**: Walk through the internal passages to learn how a dam functions.
*Fish Catching**: A popular activity for children to interact with nature in the water.
*Woodworking Workshop**: Create your own original crafts using natural materials.
*Forest Bathing & Plant Observation**: Observe the rich surrounding nature with expert guidance.
*Dam Lake Cruise**: Experience the vast scenery from a boat (subject to availability depending on the year).
Schedule
The event takes place on July 28.
*Event Hours**: 10:00–15:00
*Sample Schedule**:
Forest Bathing & Plant Observation: 10:30–12:00
Fish Catching: 12:50–13:30 (Elementary school age and younger only)
Dam Facility Tour: Ongoing (approx. 30 mins per session)
Woodworking Workshop: Ongoing
Venue & Access
The venue consists of the Tsunori Dam Management Office and Ogusa Nature Park. As the two locations are about 1km apart, a shuttle bus will be in operation.
Item
Details
Venue Name
Tsunatori Dam Management Office / Ogusa Nature Park
*By Car**: Temporary parking is available near the Tsunatori Dam Management Office (Note: Parking is not available at Ogusa Nature Park).
*Free Shuttle Bus**: A free shuttle service will run from Iwate Prefectural Office and Yamagishi Elementary School. Please check the specific schedule on the day.
Essential Tips for Visitors
As this is an outdoor learning event, preparation is key. Please note the following for the dam tour and water activities:
*Dam Interior Tour**: The interior contains many stairs and can be slippery. Please wear sturdy, walking shoes. The temperature inside is approximately 10°C (50°F), so bringing a light jacket is highly recommended.
*Water Activities**: For fish catching, please bring clothes that can get wet, a change of clothes, and a towel.
*Heatstroke Prevention**: As this is a summer outdoor event, stay hydrated and take necessary precautions against the heat.
What to Bring & Etiquette
There are no convenience stores, supermarkets, or vending machines near the venue. Please prepare the following in advance:
*What to Bring**: Lunch, drinks, snacks, and rain gear (the event proceeds in light rain).
*Clothing**: Sturdy walking shoes for the dam tour and clothes that can get wet for fish catching.
*Reservation & Fees**: Participation is free. However, some programs may require prior registration. Please check the official website for details.
