Kegon Falls
Kegon Falls (華厳の滝, Kegon no Taki) is a 97-meter-tall waterfall located just east of Lake Chuzenji. As one of Nikko’s most iconic landmarks, it is frequently cited as one of Japan’s three most beautiful waterfalls, alongside Nachi Falls in Wakayama and Fukuroda Falls in Ibaraki. This massive plume is the primary outlet for the waters of Lake Chuzenji, formed centuries ago when a lava flow from the eruption of Mount Nantai dammed the Daiya River.
While a free observation platform near the top offers a glancing view of the drop, the most visceral experience is found at the base of the gorge. For a small fee, an elevator carries visitors 100 meters down through the solid bedrock to a multi-level viewing deck. From this lower vantage point, the sheer scale of the falls becomes apparent, as does the “Twelve Falls”—a series of smaller streams that seep through the cracks between the lava layers flanking the main falls. The mist and roar of the water are particularly intense during the spring snowmelt.
Seasonal changes drastically alter the falls’ appearance. In mid-to-late October, the surrounding forests turn brilliant shades of red and gold, making it one of the busiest foliage spots in the country. Conversely, in the depths of winter, the smaller auxiliary falls often freeze completely, creating intricate blue-tinged ice pillars that hang from the cliff face. For the ultimate panoramic view, travelers should stop at the Akechidaira Observation Deck while ascending the Irohazaka winding road. Accessible via ropeway, it provides the famous perspective of the falls plunging out of the lake against the backdrop of the Nikko mountains.
| Visitor Information | |
|---|---|
| Address | 2479-2 Chugushi, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1661 (Google Maps) |
| Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (March–Nov) / 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Dec–Feb) Subject to weather conditions. |
| Price | Elevator Fee: Adults ¥600 / Children ¥300 (Upper platform is free) |
| Website | Visit Website |
| Access | ||
|---|---|---|
| Station / Stop | Line / Bus | Access Details |
| Nikko Station | Tobu Bus (Chuzenji Onsen bound) | Take the bus from JR or Tobu Nikko Station to Chuzenji Onsen (50 mins), then walk 5 mins |
| Akechidaira | Ropeway / Bus | Stop at Akechidaira on the way up (Irohazaka) to see the falls from the distant observation deck |