Kegon Falls

Attraction

Prefecture

Tochigi

Type

Attraction

N/A

0 reviews

¥600

Entry Fee

Restaurant Cafe

Plan a trip with Kegon Falls

About This Destination

One of Japan's three finest waterfalls, plunging 97 meters from the heights of Lake Chuzenji into a misty gorge, especially dramatic framed by autumn foliage or winter ice.

Kegon Falls plunges 97 meters from the outlet of Lake Chuzenji, creating one of Japan's most celebrated natural spectacles, at its finest during autumn foliage. An elevator carved into the cliff face takes visitors to an observation platform at the base, where the thundering cascade fills the gorge with mist. The falls freeze partially in winter, creating an equally dramatic ice formation that draws photographers year-round.

Location

Prefecture: Tochigi

Address: Tochigi, Japan

Nearest Station: Nikko Station (bus transfer)

Opening hours: Mon–Sun 08:00–17:00

Hours note: The hours are for the paid elevator to the lower viewing platform. From 1 December to the end of February it runs 9:00 to 16:30.

Hours and fees checked against the official site on 9 October 2026.

Best time to visit: Late October for autumn foliage framing the 97-metre falls; winter ice and summer green are also dramatic

🍁 Autumn leaves: Mid October – early November in a typical year. See autumn leaves on the map

View on Google Maps Explore nearby

Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Accepted

Food Options: Souvenir shops near the observation deck sell yuba (tofu skin) dishes, a Nikko specialty, along with dango, soba noodles, and light snacks.

Official Website

Access

2479-2 Chugushi, Nikko, Tochigi

Get Directions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Kegon Falls?

From Nikko Station take the bus up the winding Irohazaka road to Chuzenji Onsen, about 45 minutes. The falls are a short walk from the bus stop.

What is Kegon Falls?

It is a 97-metre plunge where Lake Chuzenji's waters burst over a cliff, counted among Japan's three most famous waterfalls. A paid elevator descends to a platform facing the thundering base.

When is the best time to see Kegon Falls?

Mid-October brings fiery foliage around the gorge, though expect Irohazaka traffic. June offers fresh greenery and swollen flows, while midwinter reveals partially frozen blue ice.