What to know
Ryuzu Waterfall (竜頭ノ滝, Ryūzu no Taki) translates to "dragon head waterfall" in Japanese, a name inspired by its shape that resembles a dragon's head. The cascade is situated on the Yukawa River, just before it flows into Lake Chuzenji.
Surrounded by trees that burst into shades of yellow and red during autumn, Ryuzu Waterfall takes on a fiery, dragon-like appearance. Due to its shaded location, it is often one of the first spots in Nikko to showcase fall colors, typically peaking in early October.
Visitors can view the waterfall for free from a small observation deck at the back of a rest house, which also houses a souvenir shop and a food stand. A walking trail follows the river upstream for about 300 meters, offering more views of the rushing water before continuing toward the Senjogahara Marshlands.
From JR or Tobu Nikko Station, take a Tobu bus bound for Yumoto Onsen and alight at the Ryuzu no taki bus stop. The one-way bus ride takes about one hour, costs 1,600 yen, and is covered by the Nikko All Area Pass. A 2-day pass for unlimited bus rides between Nikko and Yumoto Onsen is available for 3,500 yen at Tobu Nikko Station.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Closed
- Admission
- English name
- Original name
- Ryuzu Waterfall
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