Kegon Falls Tokyo
Witness the breathtaking 97-meter cascade of Kegon Falls, one of Japan's most stunning waterfalls, with a unique elevator ride to its powerful base.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid traffic and crowds
Kegon Falls Tokyo
Best Time
Avoid traffic and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the breathtaking 97-meter cascade of Kegon Falls, one of Japan's most stunning waterfalls, with a unique elevator ride to its powerful base.
"The elevator ride through the mountain to reach the base of Kegon Falls is a must-do!"
🚗 Beat the Irohazaka Traffic
The Irohazaka Winding Road can get very congested. Travel early or on weekdays to minimize delays.
🎟️ Elevator for the Best View
Don't miss the elevator to the base for the most dramatic waterfall views. It's a unique experience!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Plunge
Main viewing area
Witness the breathtaking 97-meter cascade of water plunging over a dramatic cliff face into the pool below.
Elevator to the Depths
Entrance to the observation elevator
Descend through the rock via a special elevator for a unique perspective of the waterfall's powerful base.
Panoramic Overlooks
Akechidaira Ropeway
Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and Mount Nantai from this scenic viewpoint.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds to Kegon Falls
Getting to the Base
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Irohazaka Traffic
The Irohazaka Winding Road can get very congested. Travel early or on weekdays to minimize delays. +1
🎟️ Elevator for the Best View
Don't miss the elevator to the base for the most dramatic waterfall views. It's a unique experience!
🚌 Consider a Nikko Pass
A Nikko All Area Pass can be cost-effective for bus travel around the sights.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking, especially if you explore the surrounding areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Irohazaka Traffic
The Irohazaka Winding Road can get very congested. Travel early or on weekdays to minimize delays. +1
🎟️ Elevator for the Best View
Don't miss the elevator to the base for the most dramatic waterfall views. It's a unique experience!
🚌 Consider a Nikko Pass
A Nikko All Area Pass can be cost-effective for bus travel around the sights.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking, especially if you explore the surrounding areas.
📸 Capture the Mist
The spray from the falls creates a beautiful misty atmosphere, perfect for photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kegon Falls is widely praised for its majestic beauty and the unique experience of viewing it from the base via a special elevator. Visitors are captivated by the sheer power and scale of the waterfall. However, the significant traffic congestion on the Irohazaka Winding Road, especially during peak seasons, is a common point of frustration.
"Kegon Falls is one of Japan’s top three waterfalls, and it truly lives up to the reputation. Just a short distance from the hotel, you’re greeted with the thundering roar of water plunging nearly 100 meters powerful, awe-inspiring, and utterly refreshing.
Surrounded by lush foliage and mist rising from the base, it’s both dramatic and tranquil. The viewing platforms make it easy to appreciate the scale and beauty from the perfect angle, and the walk there feels like a little adventure through Nikko’s pristine nature."
Genta
"Stunning stunning location! It is clean and well presented. Stop at the top and enjoy a view from the top. Grab some food or snack the purchase a lift ticket and then you are on your way to the bottom to see some amazing views of the waterfall. The waterfall is very high and a beautiful blue colour. This waterfall is a must see attraction."
Damien Smith
"American Family Visiting
Kegon Falls was probably the highlight of my visit in the Nikko area. After missing it in 2010, our recent 2025 summer trip prompted the opportunity to get up here.
The falls themselves are some of the most breathtaking falls I've ever seen. There are views from the top of the gorge as well as an observation deck at the lower level. There is an elevator (for a fee) that will take you down to the lower observation level. The lower level can be slick so take caution.
There is a shop at the lower observation deck as well as upper shops. Additional facilities such as shops, bathrooms, and food are available. All were clean and staff was friendly.
Parking is available at two locations. We parked at parking lot #2. We entered the gate which took a picture of our license plate. When leaving, you enter your license plate number and you are then provided your charge. Upon exiting, you simply approach the exit, the camera reads your plate, and opens if you have paid."
Matthew Sharpe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to take a train from Tokyo to Nikko Station (about 2 hours), then catch a bus to Kegon Falls. The bus ride itself takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
The Irohazaka Winding Road has 48 hairpin turns and can be challenging to drive, especially during peak seasons. Bus travel is often recommended.
Yes, it's feasible to visit Kegon Falls as a day trip from Tokyo, but it requires an early start to maximize your time and avoid traffic. +1
Buses are the primary mode of transport to Kegon Falls from Nikko Station. Consider purchasing a Nikko All Area Pass for convenient bus travel.
While direct options are limited, express trains to Nikko followed by a bus are the most efficient. Some tours might offer more direct arrangements.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The falls themselves are free to view from the upper observation deck. However, there is a fee to use the elevator that takes you to the lower viewing platform.
The elevator typically operates from around 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Tickets for the elevator are usually purchased on-site at the entrance. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during busy periods, to avoid queues.
The Nikko All Area Pass covers bus transportation to Kegon Falls, but the elevator fee is separate.
The fee for the elevator is typically around 550 JPY for adults. Prices can be subject to change.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most dramatic views are from the lower observation deck, accessible via the paid elevator. The upper deck offers a broader, but less immersive, perspective.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully experience Kegon Falls, including the elevator ride and time spent at the viewing platforms.
Yes, nearby attractions include Lake Chuzenji, Akechidaira Ropeway, and various temples and shrines in the Nikko area.
The upper viewing area is generally accessible. The elevator to the lower viewing platform is also accessible, but it's always good to confirm with the facility.
Expect lush forests, a beautiful lake (Lake Chuzenji), and the majestic waterfall itself. The area is known for its natural beauty, especially in autumn.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds. Autumn provides vibrant foliage as a backdrop, while summer can capture the mist and lush greenery.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures, especially in lower light, but can be cumbersome in crowds.
The lower observation deck provides the most iconic shots. The Akechidaira Ropeway offers panoramic views that include the falls.
Be prepared for spray, especially at the lower viewing area. A lens cloth is essential. Shooting with the sun behind you can help illuminate the mist.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and around natural attractions like Kegon Falls to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the area around the falls is generally safe, supervision is essential, especially near the viewing platforms. Consider bringing a change of clothes if your children enjoy getting close to the mist. Nearby Lake Chuzenji also offers opportunities for gentle walks and boat rides, making it a good complement to the falls visit for a family day out.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For a broader perspective, the Akechidaira Ropeway provides stunning panoramic views that are perfect for landscape photography. Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light. Autumn foliage adds vibrant colors, making it a prime spot for nature photographers.
🚗 Road Trip Adventurers
If you choose to drive, start very early to beat the worst of the congestion. Utilize navigation apps for real-time traffic updates. Parking is available near the falls, but can fill up quickly. Consider this route if you enjoy scenic drives and are prepared for potential delays.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Irohazaka Winding Road
To mitigate the traffic, early morning departures are highly recommended. Traveling on weekdays can also offer a slightly smoother experience compared to weekends. Some visitors suggest that the bus system, while subject to the same road conditions, can be a more relaxed option than driving yourself, as you can focus on the scenery.
For those who prefer to drive, be prepared for potential delays and consider using navigation apps that provide real-time traffic updates. Alternatively, embracing the journey and enjoying the unique road itself can be part of the adventure, but it's wise to factor in ample buffer time for your itinerary.
The Unique Elevator Experience
The elevator transports you directly to a viewing platform that puts you incredibly close to the thundering water. Here, you can feel the mist, hear the roar, and truly appreciate the sheer force and scale of the 97-meter cascade. It's a perspective that many visitors find essential for a complete understanding of the falls' grandeur.
While there is a small fee for the elevator, most travelers agree it's well worth the cost for the unparalleled views and the novelty of the experience. It's advisable to purchase tickets upon arrival, and be prepared for potential queues during busy periods.
Beyond the Falls: Nikko's Natural Beauty
For breathtaking panoramic views that encompass Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and Mount Nantai, a ride on the Akechidaira Ropeway is highly recommended. This scenic gondola lift provides a spectacular vantage point, especially during autumn when the surrounding mountains are ablaze with color.
Many travelers find this overlook to be a highlight of their Nikko trip, offering a different perspective on the region's natural splendor. Beyond these main attractions, the Nikko area is also known for its hiking trails and other natural wonders. Exploring these can add another dimension to your visit, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquil forests and mountain scenery that make this region so special.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit