The Haunted Dam of Kamikawa

Some lakes in Japan come with gentle scenery, quiet forests, and peaceful reflections. Others come with stories. In Kamikawa, Lake Kanna, formed by the Shimokubo Dam, has gained a small reputation as a “haunted dam.” Visitors sometimes mention strange sounds, eerie mist, or an unsettling stillness that settles over the water on quiet days, stemming from urban folklore about accidents at the dam.

Despite the spooky nickname, Lake Kanna is a beautiful place to visit, surrounded by steep valley walls and deep green water. It’s popular for fishing, seasonal drives, and quiet nature walks. The haunted reputation adds a touch of mystery, but most people come for the scenery rather than the stories.

If you enjoy lakes with a little atmosphere, Lake Kanna offers both; beauty by day, and whispers of legend by night.