Kegon Waterfall (Kegon no taki)

Kegon Waterfall (Kegon no taki) is one of Japan’s most famous waterfalls in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. It’s about 97 meters tall, making it a powerful sight to behold. Lake Chuzenji feeds the waterfall, and the water plunges straight down into a basin below. This waterfall is awe-inspiring in autumn when the surrounding trees turn brilliant shades of red and yellow. It’s a popular spot for visitors throughout the year because the view is stunning in any season.

Kegon Waterfall was formed over 20,000 years ago due to the eruption of Mount Nantai, which created Lake Chuzenji. The waterfall’s name, “Kegon,” comes from one of the most important scriptures in Buddhism, the Avatamsaka Sutra, symbolizing the waterfall's deep cultural and spiritual significance.

For those interested in a closer look, there’s an elevator that takes you down to an observation deck at the base of the waterfall. Here, you can experience the full force of the water and its misty spray, making for a memorable visit.