The frozen waterfalls of Unryu Keikoku 雲竜渓谷の滝
Unryu Keikoku Icefalls
Flick/ naokomc
The Suspended Beauties of the Valley of the Mist
Located 450 meters above sea level in the mountainous regions of Nikko, the Unryu Keikoku waterfalls offer magnificent winter landscapes. With their ice statues and natural mist, they are one of the most popular spots for hikers. Discover the hidden treasure just two hours from Tokyo!
Lavallee of the mist
Unryu Keikoku is a natural valley formed between the Nyoho and Akanagi Mountains. Nicknamed "the valley of the cloud dragon," Unryu Keikoku is trapped in a natural mist throughout the year! A feature that allows it to offer landscapes of incredible beauty whatever the season.
In summer, these are waterfalls like the others. Fed by precipitation, they enchant hikers who come to rest at their foot.
In winter, however, they turn into ice statues! A natural phenomenon that attracts more curious people is lovers of unusual hikes.
See also: The ice sculptures of Lake Inawashiro.
The valley of mist on sunny days
Wikimedia
With their 80 meters high, the stalactites created by the ice hypnotize more than one. Confined to the hollow of the valley between the snow and the water of the stream, they spring from the winter mist to form a striking picture that one would not suspect the existence only two hours from Tokyo.
The waterfalls in the middle of winter
Fick/ lapradei
The hiker's paradise
For a few years, the spot has become a must for mountain hikes.
Indeed, the valley offers an excellent 9 km course on the heights of Nikko. A 5 to 6 hrs hike highlights the relaxing landscapes of Unryu Keikoku.
Read: Hiking in Nikko
Two routes are then possible to reach the waterfalls: a path on the heights of the valley which takes the usual ways, and a more modest path which goes up the course of the stream on the side of the hill.
Each route has its advantages since the first offer magnificent panoramas while the second offers a more intimate immersion in the heart of nature.
Caution is the mother of safety
The best season to come and admire the ice falls remains from the end of December to the beginning of March.
The snow being quite thick at this time of year, a few safety instructions must be followed if you don't want to have any unpleasant surprises.
First, bring good shoes. Although snowshoes are not essential here, crampon shoes will make it easier to walk in the valley. As temperatures are low, don't forget gloves and warm clothes.
Finally, remember always to be careful. And that the ice could break at any moment. So don't get too close to these suspended beauties!
To go further: Top activities to do in winter.
Address, timetable & access
Address
Timetable
18 min by car from Nikko station (Nikko line).
