FUJIOKA, Gunma -- Managers of the Shimokubo Dam have devised a unique way of warding off pesky thrill seekers who come for a "test of courage" in the belief the dam is haunted, disturbing local residents in the process.
The poppy, up-tempo sound of a superhero theme song plays from a loudspeaker whenever people or cars approach the dam at night, transforming the atmosphere of the dark, deserted place. The measure is expected to wipe away the negative image of the dam as haunted, a rumor that has plagued local residents for years.
The Shimokubo Dam, which straddles Fujioka, Gunma Prefecture, and Kamikawa, Saitma Prefecture, is known as a sacred spot in the world of tokusatsu sci-fi films. It has been a filming location for popular live-action programs like the Kamen Rider series since the 1980s.
The shimmering, emerald-colored dam reservoir is also a popular fishing spot, with the scenic Sanbasekikyo ravine within view downstream.
It was more than 10 years ago when the area got a bad name. A rumor that the dam was haunted spread on the internet, and young people began coming to test their courage -- as well as to break into abandoned buildings, make loud noises and generally irritate locals.
"We'll lose visitors if the area has the reputation of being haunted," said a 60-year-old man who runs a Japanese-style hotel near the reservoir.
In 2011, a group of residents submitted to the Gunma prefectural government and the Fujioka city government a written request to develop measures to improve the area's image. However, no solutions were suggested.
In response, the Japan Water Agency's Shimokubo Dam Operation and Maintenance Office decided to act on its own, installing sensors at two locations near a parking lot connected to the dam in March.
When the sensors detect any movement by people or cars between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., a speaker on the Gunma side airs the theme song of local superhero group Kijin Sentai Dam Saver -- "Water Fantasia"-- while another on the Saitama side plays "Jojiman Ondo: Chaji-kyo mo Wasurezuni (Georgeman's dance song: Don't forget Sir. Charge)," composed by a group of dam aficionados.
Costumed superhero group Dam Saver was the brainchild of Kamikawa native Kenichi Murakami and his friends. Murakami wrote, composed and sang "Water Fantasia."
Some internet users have lamented the sensors and songs, saying, "The atmosphere [of the dam] has changed."
However, Akihiro Kanayama of the dam maintenance office said: "It's a completely groundless rumor. We want to restore our previous image."
Read more from The Japan News at https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/
