This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
At the end of the winding Irohazaka Road, Kegon Falls plunges 97 meters into a rocky gorge, offering one of Japan’s most breathtaking natural sights.
Japan’s Three Great Waterfalls
Kegon Falls is ranked among Japan’s Three Great Waterfalls, alongside Nachi Falls in Wakayama and Fukuroda Falls in Ibaraki. Fed directly by Lake Chuzenji, the water drops dramatically into a narrow basalt gorge. The scale and power of the fall are mesmerizing, and in autumn the fiery colors of the surrounding forest make the scene even more striking.
Two Ways to See the Falls
There are two main viewing options, each offering a different perspective:
- Free Upper Deck – Located near the parking area, this spot provides a wide, panoramic view of the falls from above.
- Paid Elevator (¥570) – This high-speed elevator descends 100 meters into the gorge, bringing you to a lower observation platform where you can feel the spray and hear the thunder of the water up close. We highly recommend this option for the full experience.
We lingered at the lower deck, watching the water crash into the rocks and swirl into the river below. The sheer force and beauty of the falls left us in awe.
How to Get to Kegon Falls
By Train and Bus
From Tokyo, take the Tobu Limited Express from Tobu Asakusa Station to Tobu Nikko Station. The ride takes about 2 hours.
From JR Tokyo, ride the Shinkansen to Utsunomiya, then the JR Nikko Line to JR Nikko Station. This route takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.
From either Tobu Nikko or JR Nikko stations, take a Tobu bus toward Chuzenji Onsen. The ride takes about 40 minutes.
- Bus stop: Chuzenji Onsen
- Walk about 5 minutes to the falls entrance
- IC cards or cash are accepted on most buses
By Car
From central Nikko, drive up the Irohazaka road. Expect about 30 minutes without traffic.
Use paid lots near the viewing area. Follow signs on arrival.
Tips
- Autumn traffic is heavy. Start early or visit late afternoon.
- Roads can be icy in winter. Check conditions before you drive.
Is Kegon Falls Worth Visiting?
Kegon Falls is unforgettable, not just for its sheer height but for the way it changes with the seasons. From the vivid reds of autumn to the fresh greens of summer and the magical ice formations of winter, each visit feels unique. With its easy access and stunning views from both above and below, it’s a Nikko highlight you won’t want to miss.
More to Explore Nearby
As a dramatic natural spectacle, Kegon Falls is a centerpiece of Nikko’s stunning mountain and lake scenery, positioning you perfectly to explore breathtaking viewpoints, high-altitude lakes, and World Heritage sites.
- Lake Chuzenji – Explore the vast caldera lake from which Kegon Falls originates, offering beautiful shoreline views and boat excursions.
- Akechidaira Plateau – Head up this scenic plateau by ropeway for a spectacular vantage point, offering sweeping views that overlook both Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji.
- Hoshino Resorts KAI Nikko – Discover a luxury accommodation option located on the shores of Lake Chuzenji, offering a serene base for exploring the high-mountain area.
- Nikko Toshogu Shrine – Visit the elaborate and magnificent World Heritage shrine, the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, located down the mountain.
