Benoki Dam — A Symbol of Post-Reversion Renewal
Located about a three-hour drive from Naha Airport, this area sits within the Yanbaru forest of Kunigami Village. Visitors can enjoy a gentle walk around Lake Iju, the calm reservoir created by the dam.
Benoki Dam, built in the 1980s, represents Okinawa’s post-reversion water policy.
But to understand it fully, we must compare it with the period of U.S. administration (1945–1972).
■ During U.S. Administration
After World War II, Okinawa was governed by
United States Civil Administration of the Ryukyu Islands (USCAR).
Policies focused mainly on:
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Military base construction
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Urban infrastructure
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Rapid postwar reconstruction
Water systems were developed, but priority was often given to areas supporting military and urban needs.
Northern Yanbaru remained relatively undeveloped.
This era can be described as
“Infrastructure for military and urban priorities.”
■ After Reversion to Japan (1972–)
After Okinawa returned to Japan in 1972, infrastructure policy shifted.
The Japanese government began strengthening:
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Flood control
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Agricultural development
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Stable water supply for local residents
Benoki Dam was part of this new vision.
This marks a transition toward
“Water policy for community life.”
During U.S. administration, infrastructure often supported military and urban priorities.
After Okinawa returned to Japan, the focus shifted toward supporting local communities.
Benoki Dam symbolizes that transition —
from strategic infrastructure to everyday life infrastructure.
