![[Detective Conan] The Silent 15 Minutes – Kurobe Dam Toyama Prefecture](https://anime-place.site/cms/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/autogen-2498-e6981961.jpg)
【Detective Conan】Silent 15 Minutes – Kurobe Dam (Toyama Prefecture)
The theatrical version “Detective Conan: Silent 15 Minutes (Quarter)” is the 15th theatrical film released in 2011. The model for the “Kitanosawa Dam” that appears in this work is the “Kurobe Dam,” Japan’s largest-class dam located in Tateyama Town, Toyama Prefecture. This article provides a thorough explanation of Kurobe Dam as a sacred site pilgrimage spot that Conan fans should visit, covering everything from access methods to photography points and nearby attractions.
The Relationship Between “Silent 15 Minutes” and Kurobe Dam
Overview of the Work and Setting
“Detective Conan: Silent 15 Minutes (Quarter)” is a story that begins with a threatening letter sent to re-elected Governor Asakura Miyako. Triggered by an incident in which a Tokyo subway tunnel is blown up, Conan and the others head to Kitanosawa Village in Niigata Prefecture.
While the setting of the work is Niigata Prefecture, the “Kitanosawa Dam,” which becomes an important stage in the story, is depicted with Toyama’s Kurobe Dam as a model. Kurobe Dam appears on the official website at the time of theatrical release and in the live-action ending, making it a sacred site officially recognized by the production team as a model.
Why Kurobe Dam Was Chosen as a Model
Kurobe Dam is Japan’s highest arch dam at 186 meters tall, with world-class scale. Its grand scale and beautiful arch structure made it the perfect stage for depicting the intense developments of the film, including avalanches and dam explosion plans in important scenes.
In “Silent 15 Minutes,” the relocation of a village due to dam construction eight years ago becomes the key to the incident. Kurobe Dam also has a history of construction work called the “Construction of the Century” from 1956 to 1963, and this grand historical background overlaps with the film’s themes.
Access Methods to Kurobe Dam
Basic Access Routes
Kurobe Dam is located on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, and general vehicles cannot access it directly. There are two main routes:
Access from the Nagano side (Ogizawa Route)
- Route bus from JR Shinano-Omachi Station to Ogizawa Station (approximately 40 minutes)
- Kanden Tunnel Electric Bus from Ogizawa Station to Kurobe Dam Station (approximately 16 minutes)
- Walk from Kurobe Dam Station to the observation platform (approximately 15 minutes)
Access from the Toyama side (Tateyama Route)
- Tateyama Cable Car from Toyama Regional Railway Tateyama Station to Bijodaira (approximately 7 minutes)
- Tateyama Highland Bus from Bijodaira to Murodo (approximately 50 minutes)
- Tateyama Tunnel Trolleybus from Murodo to Daikanbo (approximately 10 minutes)
- Tateyama Ropeway from Daikanbo to Kurobe-hira (approximately 7 minutes)
- Kurobe Cable Car from Kurobe-hira to Kurobe Lake Station (approximately 5 minutes)
- Walk from Kurobe Lake Station to Kurobe Dam (approximately 15 minutes)
Access by Car
Car access to the Nagano side (Ogizawa)
- From Chuo Expressway/Azumino IC approximately 70km (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes)
- Paid parking lot at Ogizawa Station (capacity for 350 vehicles)
Car access to the Toyama side (Tateyama)
- From Hokuriku Expressway/Tateyama IC approximately 40 minutes
- Free parking lot at Tateyama Station (capacity for 900 vehicles)
Recommended Route for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
For Conan fans doing sacred site pilgrimage, the Ogizawa route from the Nagano side is recommended. The reasons are as follows:
- Access is relatively simple
- Short travel time (approximately 30 minutes one way)
- You can see the front of the dam
- You can view the dam embankment up close, which was impressive in the film
Highlights and Photography Spots at Kurobe Dam
Dam Observation Platform (New Observation Plaza)
The observation platform at the top of the stairs from Kurobe Dam Station is the most important spot for sacred site pilgrimage. From here, you can see a panoramic view of the entire dam embankment and experience the grand dam depicted in the film.
Photography Points
- Morning light is ideal for photography
- You can see rainbows during the water release period (late June to mid-October)
- On clear days, the collaboration of the Northern Alps and the dam is beautiful
Dam Crest (Top of Dam)
The 186-meter-high dam crest can be walked across. You can experience the power of the dam while recalling the dam explosion plan depicted in the film.
Experience Points
- The crest is 492 meters long
- Looking down is dizzying due to the height
- You may see a rainbow in the spray during water release
Lake Kurobe Sightseeing Boat Garbe
The sightseeing boat “Garbe,” which operates from early June to early November, allows you to view the dam from the lake side. By seeing the dam from an angle not depicted in the film, you will discover something new.
Operating Information
- Operating Period: Early June to Early November
- Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
- Fare: Adults 1,100 yen, Children 550 yen
Dam Rest House
The Dam Rest House has a display area where you can learn about the history of Kurobe Dam construction. It helps you understand the background of the film’s story about dam construction eight years ago.
Display Contents
- Historical panels of Kurobe Dam construction
- Photographs and materials from the construction period
- Videos conveying the difficulties of the project
Water Release Observation Stage
The sight of water being released at over 10 tons per second is spectacular. It has the intensity reminiscent of the climactic scenes in the film.
Observation Points
- Water Release Period: Late June to Mid-October
- Rainbows are more visible in the morning
- Protective clothing recommended as water spray will reach you
Best Season for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Spring (Late April to June)
The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route typically opens in mid-April. During this period, you can also enjoy nearby attractions such as the “Snow Valley.”
Merits
- Beautiful snow-capped Northern Alps
- Relatively uncrowded
- Beautiful new greenery
Demerits
- Water release has not yet begun
- Cold temperatures require warm clothing
Summer (July to August)
The high season for tourism, and water release has begun.
Merits
- Water release is visible
- Rainbows are easy to see
- Mild weather
Demerits
- Very crowded
- Difficult to reserve accommodations
Autumn (September to November)
The autumn foliage season, when the most beautiful scenery can be enjoyed.
Merits
- Beautiful autumn foliage
- Water release is still visible (until mid-October)
- Less crowded than summer
Demerits
- Cold temperatures from late October
- Route closes in late November
Recommended Time for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
For Conan fans doing sacred site pilgrimage, the period from late June to early July or mid-September to early October is recommended. These are times when water release can be observed and crowds can be relatively avoided.
Tourist Attractions Around Kurobe Dam
Kurobe Gorge Railway
Though slightly away from Kurobe Dam, the Kurobe Gorge Railway’s trolley train is a popular tourist attraction in the Tateyama Kurobe area.
Access
- Move from Kurobe Dam to the Toyama side, transfer to various transportation from Kurobe Lake Station to Unazuki Onsen
- Travel time: Approximately 3-4 hours
Murodo Highland
Murodo Highland at an elevation of 2,450 meters is a highlight of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route.
Highlights
- Spectacular views of Mikuriga Pond
- Panorama of the Tateyama Mountain Range
- Alpine plant observation
Entire Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
If you have time to spare, it’s also recommended to traverse the entire Alpine Route.
Travel Time
- From Tateyama Station to Ogizawa Station: Approximately 6 hours (not including sightseeing time)
- Fare: One way 8,960 yen (as of 2024)
Precautions and Manners for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Clothing and Belongings
Essential Items
- Comfortable walking shoes (many stairs)
- Warm clothing (high elevation and low temperature)
- Rain gear (weather changes easily)
- Sunscreen (strong UV radiation)
Useful Items
- Camera/smartphone (charger too)
- Binoculars (to enjoy scenery)
- Water bottle/beverages
Temperature and Clothing Guidelines
Kurobe Dam is located at an elevation of approximately 1,500 meters, making the temperature about 10 degrees lower than in the lowlands.
Seasonal Clothing
- Spring (April-June): Thick jacket, long sleeves essential
- Summer (July-August): Thin long sleeves, something to wear over
- Autumn (September-November): Thick jacket, warm clothing
Manners and Precautions
Photography Manners
- Be considerate of other tourists
- Do not enter off-limits areas
- Be careful when using tripods
Safety Precautions
- Do not go outside the railing
- Do not overexert yourself if you have fear of heights
- Be aware that weather can change suddenly
Environmental Protection
- Always take garbage with you
- Cherish nature
- Do not collect plants or animals
Accommodation Information and Model Plans
Nearby Accommodations
Around Ogizawa (Nagano side)
- Kuroyon Royal Hotel
- Various inns in Omachi Hot Spring Area
- Hotels in Shinano-Omachi city
Around Tateyama (Toyama side)
- Hotels near Tateyama Station
- Hotels in Toyama city
- Inns in Unazuki Hot Spring
Mountain Accommodations
- Hotel Tateyama (Murodo)
- Mikuriga Pond Hot Spring (Murodo)
Day Trip Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Plan
Day Trip Plan from Nagano Side
- 8:00 Arrive at Ogizawa Station
- 8:30 Arrive at Kurobe Dam Station
- 9:00-12:00 Dam viewing and photography
- 12:00-13:00 Lunch at Dam Rest House
- 13:00-14:30 Additional photography and souvenir shopping
- 15:00 Depart to Ogizawa Station
- 15:30 Arrive at Ogizawa Station
One Night/Two Day Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Plan
Day 1
- Morning: Head to Kurobe Dam from Ogizawa
- Afternoon: Dam viewing and photography
- Evening: Move to Toyama side, stay at Unazuki Hot Spring
Day 2
- Morning: Kurobe Gorge Railway
- Afternoon: Toyama city sightseeing
History of Kurobe Dam and Common Points with “Silent 15 Minutes”
History of Kurobe Dam Construction
Kurobe Dam was constructed from 1956 to 1963. With a total project cost of 51.3 billion yen and 10 million workers involved, it was the “Construction of the Century.”
Construction Difficulties
- Struggle with shear zones
- 171 deaths
- Work in extreme cold environments
Common Themes with the Film
In “Silent 15 Minutes,” the relocation of a village due to dam construction eight years ago becomes the background of the incident. The construction of Kurobe Dam also stands on the sacrifices and efforts of many people, and its historical background overlaps with the film’s themes.
Common Themes
- Changes in the region due to dam construction
- Conflict between past and present
- Giant structures and human drama
Souvenirs and Dining Information
Kurobe Dam Curry
Speaking of Kurobe Dam’s specialty cuisine, it’s “Kurobe Dam Curry.” It’s characterized by the contrast between rice and curry shaped like a dam.
Serving Locations
- Dam Rest House
- Ogizawa Rest House
- Nearby dining establishments
Recommended Souvenirs
Kurobe Dam Exclusive Goods
- Kurobe Dam Curry (retort)
- Dam Card
- Original T-shirt
- Dam photo collection
Toyama Prefecture Specialty Products
- White shrimp crackers
- Masu (trout) sushi
- Toyama local sake
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can you visit Kurobe Dam in winter?
A1: The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, which provides access to Kurobe Dam, is closed for the winter season from late November to mid-April each year. Therefore, Kurobe Dam cannot be visited during winter. The operating period is from mid-April to late November each year.
Q2: Is viewing Kurobe Dam free?
A2: Viewing the Kurobe Dam itself is free, but the transportation facilities used for access, such as the Kanden Tunnel Electric Bus, are charged. The round-trip fare from Ogizawa to Kurobe Dam is 2,570 yen for adults (as of 2024).
Q3: How much time should I spend at Kurobe Dam?
A3: It is recommended to allocate a minimum of 2-3 hours including viewing the observation platform and crest and photography. If you plan to take the sightseeing boat or spend time on photography, 4-5 hours would allow for comfortable enjoyment.
Q4: Are there other filming locations from “Silent 15 Minutes”?
A4: The film’s setting is Niigata Prefecture, but the ending features Asahikawa Kamui Ski Links in Hokkaido. Also, the subway explosion scene at the beginning is based on Tokyo’s Shuto Expressway.
Q5: Are Conan merchandise sold at Kurobe Dam?
A5: Official Conan merchandise is not regularly sold at Kurobe Dam. However, dam cards and dam-related souvenirs are available in abundance. It is recommended to purchase Conan merchandise in advance or search for them at anime shops in Toyama city.
Q6: Can wheelchair users visit and view Kurobe Dam?
A6: There are many stairs from Kurobe Dam Station to the observation platform, and barrier-free accommodations are limited. However, the Kanden Tunnel Electric Bus is wheelchair-accessible, and the dam crest is flat, making it accessible by wheelchair. It is recommended to contact the facility in advance.
Q7: Can I visit Kurobe Dam with a pet?
A7: The Kanden Tunnel Electric Bus accepts pets (they must be in a cage). Pets can accompany visitors around Kurobe Dam, but consideration must be given to other tourists during crowded times.
Q8: Can you enjoy it on rainy days?
A8: Dam viewing is possible on rainy days, but visibility is poor. However, after rain clears, rainbows are more likely to be visible, which is a benefit. It is recommended to bring rain gear and be prepared for weather changes.
Conclusion: Maximizing Your Sacred Site Pilgrimage Experience
Kurobe Dam, the sacred site of “Detective Conan: Silent 15 Minutes,” is a wonderful spot where you can experience the world of the film. As the tallest dam in Japan, with its grand scale, history of construction, and drama depicted in the film all converging, it holds special significance for Conan fans.
The key to a successful sacred site pilgrimage is advance preparation and planning. Confirming access methods, preparing appropriate clothing, choosing the best season, and ensuring sufficient time are important. Also, by learning about the history of Kurobe Dam, you can develop a deeper understanding of the film’s themes.
Located on the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, one of the world’s premier mountain tourism routes, Kurobe Dam is not only a sacred site for Conan pilgrimage but also a place where you can experience the crystallization of Japan’s nature and technology. Enjoy the magnificent scenery of the dam while recalling scenes from the film.
We hope all Conan fans will use this sacred site pilgrimage guide to create wonderful memories. Experience the world of the film at Kurobe Dam with the spirit of “The truth is always one!”
