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Kegon Falls
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · JP

Kegon Falls

Getting around: From Tokyo, take a train to Nikko (about 2 hours), then a bus toward Chuzenjiko (about 45 minutes) to reach the falls near Lake Chuzenji.
Hours: Elevator to the lower observation platform typically 8am-5pm (seasonal variation); free to view from the upper platform, paid elevator fee for the lower viewpoint.

Kegon Falls is a 97-meter waterfall dropping from Lake Chuzenji near Nikko, one of Japan's most famous and among its tallest major waterfalls, particularly striking in autumn when the surrounding hillsides turn red and orange. An elevator carries visitors down to a lower observation platform for a closer, more dramatic view of the full drop, while a free upper viewing area gives a more distant look without the fee.

Given the distance from Tokyo and the additional travel required to Chuzenjiko, it's typically combined with other Nikko-area sights like Nikko Toshogu on the same day trip.

Kegon Falls FAQs

Is there a fee to see the falls?

A free upper viewpoint offers a distant view; a paid elevator takes you to a closer lower observation platform for the full dramatic view.

When is the best time to visit?

Autumn (typically October-November) for the surrounding foliage, though the falls are impressive year-round.

How far is it from Tokyo?

About 2 hours by train to Nikko, plus a further 45-minute bus ride to Chuzenjiko.

Can I combine this with Nikko Toshogu?

Yes, most visitors combine the falls with Nikko's shrine complex on the same day trip, given they're both in the same general area.

How long should I plan for a visit?

About 1 hour for the falls, as part of a longer Nikko day trip.

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