From downtown Nikko to a nature spot
Kegon Falls is located by the outlet for Lake Chuzenji which was formed from the eruption of Mt. Nantai. The underground water from the steep cliffs flows out forming 12 small waterfalls that are wrapped into the main waterfall which creates a unique scene. Monk Shodo Shonin has been credited as the first discoverer of Nikko, and the name of the waterfall is derived from the sacred book of Buddhism, “Kegon Kyo” (Avatamska Sutra) of the Tendai sect. A waterfall with a long drop in elevation needs a certain amount of water. Around the waterfall basin, the fairly high water pressure flying out feels like a driving rain. The 4.5m-deep basin has a mysterious atmosphere. Designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty, Kegon Falls has been recognized by many organizations for the wonder of its scenery, including its selection as one of Japan’s 100 geological features. There are observation areas at the top and bottom of the falls. An elevator at the base of the falls goes down 100 m, and through an underground path, you can reach the waterfall basin. Spanning 3 floors, you can freely come and go. Following the rainy season and typhoons, the amount of water rises and you can witness a lively show of huge sound and water spray.
From Akechi-Daira Observation Platform, you can take in the entire view of the waterfall flowing from Lake Chuzenji. Taking 35 minutes by bus from Tobu-Nikko Station, there is the ropeway going up near the end of the No. 2 Iroha slope that will take you from Akechi-Daira Station to Akechi-Daira Observation Platform (a 3-minute ride). You can feel the grand scale of the sight that cannot be seen from the bottom.
The mysterious mid-winter blue ice of Kegon Falls
Kegon Falls does not freeze over. However, in January and February, the 12 small surrounding waterfalls do. Due to this, the waterfall as a whole takes on a blue color and as a result, the effect has been called blue ice. The spring and fall are fine, but the waterfall of snow and ice also leaves a considerably deep impression.