Best Time for Visiting Kegon Falls in Winter

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Early morning visits provide the quietest experience for travelers. The sun hits the falls beautifully before noon. You can avoid the largest crowds by arriving early. Most tour buses arrive after 10:00 AM.

Weekdays are generally less crowded than snowy weekends. Locals often visit during the holidays in late December. Mid-week trips allow for better photos without many people. You will enjoy the peaceful sound of the mountains.

Check the local weather forecast before you depart Nikkō. Heavy snow can sometimes block the mountain roads temporarily. Clear days offer the best visibility for the cliffs. Expect temperatures between -5°C and 2°C.

Transportation to Kegon Falls from Nikkō Station

Taking the bus is the easiest way to travel. Use the Tobu bus from JR Nikkō Station. The ride takes approximately 50 minutes in winter. Buses run frequently throughout the entire day.

Buy a Chuzenji Onsen bus pass to save money. This pass covers the round trip to the falls. You can find transportation details at the station office. The pass offers great value for tourists.

The mountain roads have many sharp turns called Irohazaka. Drivers use winter tires to stay safe on ice. Do not try to drive yourself without experience. The professional bus drivers handle the snow very well.

Get off the bus at the Chuzenji Onsen stop. The falls are only a five-minute walk away. Follow the clear signs pointing toward the entrance. The path is usually cleared of deep snow.

Costs and Opening Hours for the Winter Season

The Kegon Falls elevator operates daily in the winter. It usually opens at 9:00 AM each morning. The facility closes at 4:30 PM during the season. Arrive before 4:00 PM to ensure you have time.

Adult tickets for the elevator cost 570 yen currently. Children can ride for a reduced price of 340 yen. These prices include the round trip to the base. You can pay with cash or IC cards.

The upper observation deck is free for all visitors. It provides a wide view of the entire canyon. However, the paid lower deck offers much better views. Most travelers prefer the lower perspective for photos.

There is a small gift shop near the entrance. You can buy hot drinks and local snacks there. Restrooms are available near the main ticket office. These facilities are well-maintained and very clean.

Viewing Platforms for the Best Frozen Views

The upper viewing deck is located near the bus stop. It offers a high perspective of the water. You can see Lake Chuzenji flowing into the falls. This area is great for a quick look.

Take the elevator down 100 meters to the lower deck. This platform has three different levels for viewing. You will feel the power of the frozen falls. The ice looks massive from this close position.

Ice often forms on the metal railings of the deck. Wear gloves to keep your hands warm while holding them. The ground can be slippery from frozen mist. Walk slowly and use the provided non-slip mats.

Look for the smaller falls on the sides of the cliff. These often freeze completely into solid white pillars. They create a beautiful contrast against the dark rock. The scale of the ice is truly impressive.

Photography Tips for Capturing Frozen Ice

Use a wide-angle lens to capture the whole scene. The cliffs are very tall and require a broad view. A tripod helps in the dim winter light. You can find more photography tips for Nikkō online.

Bright snow can trick your camera's light meter. Increase your exposure compensation by one full stop. This keeps the snow looking white instead of gray. Check your screen frequently to adjust settings.

Keep your camera batteries inside your warm jacket. Cold temperatures drain battery power very quickly in winter. Only put the battery in when you are shooting. This trick extends your shooting time significantly.

Capture the blue colors in the deep ice cracks. Polarizing filters help reduce glare from the white snow. These filters make the blue sky look much richer. Your photos will look professional with these simple tools.

Nearby Attractions to Visit with the Falls

Lake Chuzenji is just a short walk from the falls. The lake rarely freezes completely due to its depth. You can walk along the shore for beautiful views. It is a great combination for a day trip.

Visit the Chuzenji temple located further along the lake. The temple looks stunning with a fresh snow coating. It offers a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds. The walk takes about twenty minutes from the falls.

Stop at a local restaurant for hot yuba noodles. Yuba is a famous specialty food in Nikkō. It will warm your body after being outside. Many shops are located near the bus terminal.

Check the schedule for the local sightseeing boats. Some boats operate limited tours during the winter months. They offer a different view of the mountain peaks. The scenery from the water is very dramatic.