Nikko · East and north of Lake Chuzenji
Ryuzu Falls
How to get there and what to see · facts checked 2026-10-24
Photo: 663highland・CC BY-SA 4.0
A cascade that tumbles down a lava rock like a staircase. It is one of Okunikko's best-known falls and a popular autumn-colour spot.
- Nearest station
- About 65 minutes by bus, then a 2-minute walk
What to see
- A 210 m run: the water rushes down a stair-like rock bed about 10 m wide.
- Dragon's head: the two streams split by the rock are said to look like the dragon's whiskers.
- Viewing deck: look down on the pool framed by autumn leaves.
Seasons
- Reddish-purple Tohoku mitsuba azaleas bloom in May and June. The autumn leaves start from late September and are said to be the earliest in Nikko.
History
The water runs over lava from Mt. Nantai's eruption. A large rock near the base splits the flow in two, which looks like a dragon's head, and gave the falls their name.
Getting there
About 65 minutes by bus from JR Nikko or Tobu-Nikko Station toward Yumoto Onsen, then about 2 minutes on foot from the "Ryuzu no Taki" stop.
Address：Chugushi, Nikko, Tochigi
Before you go
The official pages list no hours or fee.
Lake Chuzenji area (about 50 min by bus)
Tap a red pin to open that sight's page.
Nearby sights
← Nikko guide: trains from Tokyo
Sources
Hours, prices and history come from the official websites and public tourism pages listed here. They can change, so check the official site before you go.
- 日光市観光協会（竜頭滝）（checked 2026-10-24）
Map data：© OpenStreetMap contributors