The Kegon Falls is a popular place to visit in Japan for locals as well as international travelers. This waterfall is located near Lake Chuzenji of Nikko town in Tochigi Prefecture. If you like to enjoy waterfall with beautiful natural surroundings, this waterfall in Nikko will not disappoint you. It is considered as one of the three famous falls in entire Japan.
Water exits from the nearest Lake Chuzenji and fall from this 97 meters high waterfall to the basin below. It is estimated that, about 3 tons water per second fall from this waterfall. You can enjoy both the waterfall and lake from Akechidaira Observatory.
In the Summer and Spring the surroundings of the waterfall is greenish and in the Autumn the waterfall can be enjoyed with colorful Autumn leaves. This falls and its nearby area is very popular place to visit in Japan during Autumn season. The waterfall gets frozen in the Winter. On a sunny day if you are lucky, you can enjoy rainbow near the base of the waterfall.
In general, you can enjoy the stunning view of the falls free from free observation deck. However, if you want to have a closer view you need to go to the paid observation deck by elevator which will take you 100 meters deep down.
How to visit this waterfall?
By car from Tokyo it takes about 4 hours to reach the waterfall. By train and then bus it takes about 3 and half hours. If you use train and bus it is between 5000 yen ~ 7000 yen one way.
Kegon Falls – Entry Fees and Address
The paid lower observation deck admission fee is between 550 yen and 570 yen for adult. For elementary student it is between 330 yen and 340 yen. Children under elementary school is free of charge. Parking fee is 320 yen for ordinary car.
Address: 2479-2 Chugushi, Nikko 321-1661 Tochigi Prefecture.
Website: https://www.visitnikko.jp/en/spots/kegon-falls/
The lower observation deck opening and closing time varies throughout the year. From December 1st to February 28th opening time is from 9:00 to 16:30. From March 1st to April 30th it is from 9:00 to 17:00. From May 1st to November 30th it is from 8:00 to 17:00.
For the photographers this waterfall is a popular place. Families that has children can also visit this place. You can reach the top observation deck by foot from the parking.
When to visit Kegon Falls?
You can visit the falls at any time of the year. However, the best season for visiting this waterfall is Autumn when you can enjoy colorful Autumn leaves and the stunning view of the waterfall at the same time. Autumn time is from mid to late October. In the Winter the waterfall gets completely frozen.
Some Handy Tips
Some handy tips are – Check the weather before visiting the waterfall. A sunny day with clear sky is highly recommended. If possible visit the waterfall in Autumn. If you drive to the spot using private vehicle, please stay careful since to reach the spot you have to drive on the sideway of the mountain.
For natural lovers, Kegon Falls is one of the best place to visit in Japan. And now that you know about this spot, why not visit this mighty waterfall when you get an opportunity? On a sunny Autumn day the stunning view of the falls surrounded by beautiful red and yellow trees will make your day memorable forever. If you have travel itinerary around Tochigi, keep Kegon Falls in your bucket list.
