Jakko Falls

A seven-tiered waterfall steeped in temple legends, a hidden gem in Nikko’s tranquility

Tracing the spiritual site founded by Kobo Daishi — listen to the murmurs of flowing water in the quiet forest

Jakko Falls is located in Nikko City’s Chugawa area. With a height of about 50 meters and a width of 6 meters, it cascades down in seven tiers. The surrounding forest is lush, and the mountain trail offers a deeply serene atmosphere, earning its reputation as a hidden scenic spot known only to locals. The site was once home to the ancient Jakko-ji Temple, said to have been founded by Kobo Daishi in 820 AD. During the Meiji era, due to the government’s separation of Buddhism and Shintoism, the temple was converted into Jakko Shrine, and religious legends are still passed down today.

Along the trail to the waterfall lies the massive Ikeishi Stone, shrouded in dense forest, adding a mystical aura to the site. From Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park, it takes about a 20-minute walk to reach the falls, making it a perfect spot for hiking and enjoying seasonal scenery, especially during spring and autumn.

Location Map

Basic Information

Address	Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
Telephone Number	0288-22-1525（Nikko City Tourism Association）
Website	https://www.nikko-kankou.org/public/spot/484
DIRECTIONS	From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, take a bus for about 15 minutes. Get off at “Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park” bus stop, then walk about 20 minutes.
Map Code	367 338 135*45

Nikko Area

The Nikko area, in the northwestern part of the prefecture, is particularly mountainous. In the midst of the rich nature, including the 2,486-meter-high volcano Mt. Nantai, Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Falls, there are numerous shrines and temples that are registered as UNESCO Cultural Heritage sites. From Kinugawa Onsen to Kawaji Onsen, hot springs can also be found throughout the area. There are a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy as well, such as stand-up paddleboarding in the summer and snowshoeing in the winter.