A monster-sized before-and-after
Most cleaning jobs end with a cleaner wall. This one ended with Godzilla. In November 2024, a joint project by Saga Prefecture and Kärcher revealed the movie monster on Japan's Iwayagawachi Dam in Ureshino. Saga Prefecture announced the completed artwork on November 22, 2024.
This is a look back at that project, not breaking news or confirmation that the artwork still looks the same today.
The picture was in the contrast
According to Kärcher's account, the image emerged from the difference between cleaned and uncleaned concrete. Industrial climbers and surveying technicians marked out the design, then selectively removed surface growth with pressure washers.
The crew used paint guide dots to lay out the design, so calling the entire project paint-free would be misleading. The finished picture's main effect came from selective cleaning.
WashWiki's take: the memorable part is the planning. A familiar trade tool became an enormous drawing tool. The linked organizer records include the original photographs so you can see the result for yourself.
Enjoy the oddity; leave the stunt to the specialists
This is an unusual-project feature, not a how-to for dam access, rope work or high-pressure cleaning. It opens our collection of creative cleanups, unusual jobs and lighthearted moments from the trade.
Sources & references
- Saga Prefecture announces the completed Godzilla dam artwork — November 22, 2024 (Japanese) — Saga Prefecture, via PR TIMES. Checked October 25, 2026.
- Kärcher's project account and original photographs — December 5, 2024 (PDF) — Kärcher. Checked October 25, 2026.
- Kärcher project record: work carried out in November 2024 (German) — Kärcher. Checked October 25, 2026.