Nikko Fall Foliage: 12 Sites With Breathtaking Scenery

Fall Foliage in Nikko 2024

2024 Fall foliage map created by MATCHA based on information from Weathernews

Nikko has long been the historical retreat for many famous figures in Japanese history. Just two hours by train from Tokyo, Nikko is ideal for a short trip filled with stunning natural beauty—especially in autumn!

Red leaves can be spotted as early as mid to late October in the Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls area, due to its higher altitude. The fall foliage around the World Heritage Sites in Nikko can be enjoyed from early to mid-November.

From dramatic waterfalls to historical shrines and temples, here are some of the best fall foliage spots in Nikko.

Nikko’s Fabulous Fall Foliage

1. Kegon Falls
2. Lake Chuzenji Area
3. Hangetsuyama Observation Deck
4. Irohazaka Road
5. Akechidaira Ropeway Observation Deck
6. Senjogahara Marshland
7. Yudaki Falls
8. Ryuzu Falls
9. Kirifuri Falls
10. Nikko Botanical Gardens
11. Nikko's World Heritage Sites
12. Kanmangafuchi Abyss

1. Kegon Falls

Photo by Pixta
A plume of white water cascades dramatically against a backdrop of orange foliage and crisp blue skies.

Kegon Falls is a stunning sight year-round, but it becomes truly magical in autumn when the surrounding forest transforms into a vibrant display of red, orange, and gold.

The contrast between the colorful leaves and the cascading 97-meter waterfall creates an unforgettable scene.

A visit in the fall offers not only breathtaking views but also a serene atmosphere, perfect for soaking in Japan’s natural beauty.

Kegon Falls
Fall Foliage Season: Early October - late October
Hours: March - November 8:00 - 17:00, December - February 9:00 - 16:30
Admission: adults 600 yen, elementary school students 400 yen, children under elementary school age: free
Location: Map
Access: From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, take the Tobu Bus bound for Chuzenji Onsen. It takes about 50 minutes to reach the Chūzenji Onsen bus stop, followed by a 5-minute walk to the Kegon Falls' entrance.

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2. Lake Chuzenji Area

Lake Chuzenji: Autumn colors in the British Embassy Villa Memorial Park. Photo by Pixta
Why not enjoy the calm waters of Lake Chuzenji bordered by beautiful groves of autumn trees that have been beloved by both Japanese nobility and foreign dignitaries?

Lake Chuzenji is a breathtaking destination in autumn, as the surrounding mountains burst with brilliant shades of color that reflect the season's splendor.

Chuzenji Temple. Photo by Pixta

One particular place that we recommend in this area is Chuzenji Temple, the historical temple established in 784 that gave the name of the lake. The temple's beautiful structures combined with the autumn colors create a breathtaking sight!

Chuzenji is famous for its wooden statue of the Eleven-Faced and Thousand-Handed Kannon, said to have been carved by its founder, Shodo Shonin, after he had seen a vision of Kannon Boddhisatva floating above the waters of the lake. The temple is definitely worth visiting!

The Italian Embassy Villa Memorial Park and the British Embassy Villa Memorial Park, located nearby, are also splendid locations to view the autumn foliage.

The Lake Chuzenji area is ideal for leisurely walks, boat rides, and capturing the essence of Nikko’s autumn splendor.

Lake Chuzenji
Fall Foliage Season: Mid to late October
Access: By bus from Nikko Station; take the bus heading for Okunikko Yumoto Onsen and get off at the Chuzenji Onsen bus stop.
Chuzenji Temple: Map

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3. Hangetsuyama Observation Deck

Photo by Pixta

Mt. Hangetsu is a mountain located southeast of Lake Chuzenji. The Hangetsuyama Observation Deck located near the summit offers panoramic views of Lake Chuzenji. the Haccho Dejima island jutting out into the lake, Mt. Nantai, and the mountain peaks beyond.

This location is known as one of Nikko's premier viewpoints, especially magnificent during the autumn foliage season. In order to reach the viewing deck, you'll need to hike up the mountain for about 30 minutes, so please make sure to wear appropriate footwear. The hiking trails are well maintained.

Hangetsuyama Observation Deck
Fall Foliage Season: Late October
Hours: 7:00 - 17:00
Location: Map
Access: From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, take the bus bound for Yumoto Onsen or Chuzenji Onsen. Get off at Chuzenji Onsen and transfer to the bus to Hangetsuyama, getting off at Hangetsuyama. It is about a 30-minute hike from there.
*Please note that the Hangetsuyama bus operates seasonally. In 2024, it will run from October 1 to November 10.

4. Irohazaka Road

Photo by Pixta
A winding mountain road beautifully showcases the fall foliage, allowing visitors to enjoy it either on the many tour buses or during a spectacular road trip.

The Irohazaka Winding Road is a thrilling route with 48 hairpin turns in Nikko, especially stunning in autumn.

As you ascend the zigzagging turns, vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves blanket the mountainside in a breathtaking display.

With scenic viewpoints along the way, this road offers a great taste of what the area has to offer, making it enjoyable for both those who ride the accessible tour buses and those taking a fall foliage drive!

Irohazaka
Fall Foliage Season: Late October - early November
Access: If you travel from Nikko Station by bus to Okunikko - Lake Chuzenji - Yumoto Onsen, the bus will run through Irohazaka.

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5. Akechidaira Ropeway Observation Deck

Photo by Pixta
The Akechidaira Ropeway Observation Deck is one of the best places to enjoy panoramic views of Nikko National Park, with Kegon Falls directly in front of you, along with Mount Nantai, Lake Chuzenji, Hakuun Falls, and Byobuiwa Rock.

Photo by Pixta

To reach the viewing deck, go to Akechidaira by bus and take the cable car from there.

Famous for azaleas in early summer, which cover the mountain from May to June, the Akechidaira Plateau offers stunning views in autumn when the area is enveloped in vibrant fall foliage.

Akechidaira Ropeway Observation Deck
Fall Foliage Season: Mid-October to early November
Location: Map
Access: From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, take the bus bound for Yumoto Onsen or Chuzenji Onsen. It takes about 40 minutes to reach the Akechidaira bus stop. From there, take the Akechidaira Ropeway; it takes about 3 minutes to get to the observation deck.

6. Senjogahara Marshland

Photo by Pixta

This gorgeous marshland in Nikko is one of the first places to showcase fall foliage, transforming the scenery into a picturesque gold!

Senjogahara Plateau, with its vast marshlands and open skies, is among the first locations in Nikko to herald autumn's arrival.

The cooler climate causes the foliage to change earlier here, offering a tranquil setting for hikers eager to experience fall's beauty before the crowds arrive.

Beautiful boardwalk trails allow visitors to explore the perimeter as well as the marshland’s interior.

Senjogahara Marshland
Grass: Mid-September
Trees: Mid to late October
Location: Map
Access: From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, take the Tobu Bus bound for Yumoto Onsen. It takes about 65 minutes to the Sanbonmatsu bus stop; from here, you can reach the entrance to Senjogahara in one minute on foot. If hiking, get off at the earlier Akanuma bus stop.

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7. Yudaki Falls

Photo by Pixta

Experience a waterfall that harnesses the natural hot spring energy that is abundant in the Nikko area.

Yudaki Falls offers a stunning display of nature’s power as water cascades down a steep rock face, creating a dynamic view for visitors.

In autumn, the falls are especially captivating, as the surrounding foliage changes early, providing a tranquil spot for guests to enjoy the scenery.

Nearby walking trails make it easy to explore the area and fully appreciate the beauty of the falls and the surrounding landscape.

Yudaki Falls
Fall Foliage Season: Early to mid-October
Location: Map
Access: From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, take a bus bound for Yumoto Onsen. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach the Yudaki Iriguchi bus stop, followed by a 5-minute walk.

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8. Ryuzu Falls

Photo by Pixta

The early bird catches the dramatic change of colors that occurs in this part of Nikko, one of the first areas to signal the arrival of the new season.

Ryuzu Falls, also known as the “Dragon Head Falls,” features a striking cascade of water that flows over rocky steps, resembling a dragon’s head and tail.

In autumn, the falls are framed by vivid foliage that transforms early, enhancing the dramatic scenery. The surrounding trails offer serene views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Ryuzu Falls
Fall Foliage Season: Late September to mid-October
Location: Map
Access: From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, take a bus bound for Yumoto Onsen. It takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes to reach the Ryuzu no Taki bus stop, followed by a 2-minute walk.

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9. Kirifuri Falls

Photo by Pixta

Kirifuri Falls is renowned for its picturesque 75-meter cascade, beautifully surrounded by autumn foliage that changes early.

The falls can be viewed from an observation deck that allows visitors to fully take in the beauty of Nikko's mountainside.

The crisp fall air and early-changing colors enhance the beauty of this hidden gem.

Kirifuri Falls
Fall Foliage Season: Late September to early October
Location: Map
Access: From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, take the Tobu Bus bound for Kirifuri Kogen (in winter, the bus heads to Kirifuri no taki). It takes about 10 minutes to reach the Kirifuri no Taki bus stop, followed by a 10-minute walk to the viewing platform.

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10. Nikko Botanical Gardens

Who knew that a university research garden could yield one of the most stunning displays of fall foliage in the Nikko area?

The Nikko Botanical Gardens are a serene escape, especially in autumn when the landscape is transformed by the changing colors of the leaves.

Due to the wide variety of trees in this garden, you can find splendid autumn colors anytime between early October and late November!

Explore diverse plant species amid vibrant reds and oranges that beautifully contrast with the tranquil ponds in the garden. It’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of fall foliage in a relaxed, picnic-like atmosphere.

Nikko Botanical Gardens
Fall Foliage Season: Early October to late November
Hours: 9:00 - 16:30
Admission: adults 500 yen, children 150 yen
Location: Map
Access: From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, take the bus bound for Chuzenji Onsen. It takes about 11 minutes to reach the Hanaishicho bus stop, followed by a 2-minute walk, or you can get off at the Shinkyo bus stop, which is also a 2-minute walk.

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11. Nikko’s World Heritage Sites: Nikko Toshogu, Rinnoji Temple, and Nikko Futarasan Shrine

Photo by Pixta

The vibrant colors of Japanese architecture blend beautifully with the natural hues of fall, and the World Heritage sites in Nikko truly showcase this harmony.

Futarasan Shrine's Shinkyo Bridge. Photo by Pixta

Nikko’s World Heritage sites offer a stunning glimpse into Japan’s cultural and architectural heritage, particularly vibrant in autumn.

Visit the ornate Nikko Toshogu Shrine, with its intricate carvings, surrounded by brilliant foliage, and explore the serene Rinnoji Temple and Nikko Futarasan Shrine, where the historic architecture contrasts beautifully with the colorful seasonal backdrop.

These sites, framed by the vivid hues of fall, provide a rich historical experience against a breathtaking natural setting.

Nikko World Heritage Sites
Fall Foliage Season: Early to late November
Hours: April - October 9:00 - 17:00, November - March 9:00 - 16:00
Location: Map
Access: From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, take the World Heritage Tour Bus. It takes about 5 minutes to reach the Omotesando bus stop, followed by a 2-minute walk, or you can get off at the Shinkyo bus stop, which is an 8-minute walk.

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12. Kanmangafuchi Abyss

Photo by Pixta

This volcanic gorge near Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a perfect pocket of fall foliage that showcases the contrasting beauty of the trees alongside the clear waters that surge below.

Kanmangafuchi Abyss is a serene autumn retreat where the vibrant foliage creates a captivating canopy over Daiya River.

As the colorful leaves fall, they blanket the path, enhancing the tranquil walk lined with stone statues of Buddhist saints and guardian deities.

The stone statues along the path contribute to the solemnity of this quiet gorge, allowing visitors to relax and rejuvenate in the presence of the autumn leaves.

Kanmangafuchi Abyss
Fall Foliage Season: Early to mid-November
Location: Map
Access: From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, take the bus bound for Chuzenji Onsen. It takes about 8 minutes to reach the Yasukawa-cho bus stop, followed by a 20-minute walk.

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Visit Nikko in Autumn

With its close proximity to Tokyo and abundant natural and historical scenery, Nikko has long been a perfect day trip for visitors from the city.

The beauty of the region truly peaks during the fall foliage season, allowing viewers to enjoy the dramatic colors of the changing landscape. Narrowing it down to ten highlights was a challenge, but we hope these selections showcase the area's stunning beauty.

Main image by Pixta