Kegon Waterfalls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Japan, located at Lake Chuzenji in Nikko National Park, Tochigi Prefecture.
Kegon Waterfalls has a height of approximately 97 meters (318 feet), making it one of the highest waterfalls in Japan.
The best time to visit Kegon Waterfalls is during the autumn months of October and November, when the surrounding foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange.
Visitors can reach Kegon Waterfalls by taking a bus from JR or Tobu Nikko Station to Chuzenji Onsen, followed by a short walk to the falls. There are also elevators available that provide access to a viewing platform at the base.
Yes, Kegon Waterfalls is associated with several legends, including one about a young poet named Misao Fujimura who tragically ended his life there in 1903. His story has become part of Japanese cultural lore.
Traveler reviews
Kegon Waterfall, located in the scenic town of Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most famous natural attractions and is often regarded as one of the country’s top three waterfalls. Standing at an impressive height of about 97 meters, the waterfall is created by the outflow of Lake Chuzenji, which sits high in the mountains of the Nikko National Park. The water cascades dramatically down a towering cliff face, creating a powerful mist that fills the air and adds to its majestic atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy two main viewpoints. The free upper observation deck provides a broad, panoramic view of the waterfall surrounded by lush greenery in summer and vibrant foliage in autumn. For a closer and more immersive experience, a paid elevator takes you down to the lower viewing platform, where the thunderous roar, cool mist, and sheer scale of the falls can truly be felt.
Kegon Waterfall changes dramatically with the seasons. Autumn brings brilliant reds and golds, winter transforms the falls into frozen pillars of ice, and spring offers a refreshing, clear display. Whether you're into photography, nature, or just sightseeing, Kegon Waterfall is a must-visit destination that captures the raw beauty of Japan’s landscapes.
Kegon Falls is an incredibly calming place—its powerful waterfall is truly mesmerizing. You can enjoy the view from the top, but if you’d like to experience it from below, there’s an elevator that takes you down about 100 floors (with a small ticket fee). The view from the bottom is absolutely beautiful.
There are a few eateries around Kegon Falls where you can grab a bite. About 200 meters away is Lake Chuzenji, where you can enjoy swan boating or take a lake cruise. The scenery around the lake is stunning and definitely worth visiting.
One of the most beautiful waterfalls I’ve ever visited and probably the most beautiful I’ve seen in Japan. I arrived in early November, a bit too late for the fall colors but still wondrous nonetheless. It’s relatively easy to access great viewing points and worth the effort to see if you’re in the area. Definitely check it out when in Nikko!
Even in the cold, the view was worth every moment. There was something very peaceful about seeing the falls in winter, less crowded and more serene, allowing time to simply take it all in. The frozen surroundings added a completely different character compared to other seasons.
Kegon Falls is clearly beautiful year round, but seeing it in winter felt especially special. A must visit if you are in Nikko, no matter the season.
The scenery was stunning. I visited at the end of October, traveling by rented car. The autumn leaves were changing color, which was absolutely beautiful. To view the falls, you must purchase a ticket before descending by elevator. The Kegon waterfall vista from the base is simply superb. They also have a souvenir shop there. Be aware that these falls are located in the mountains, quite a distance from the Shinkyō Bridge, so you should plan your time carefully to arrive before sunset. 🍁🍂🍃
