Our Family Trip to Nikko was all about Autumn Foliage, Waterfalls, and more it was our Baby’s First waterfall Adventure
This time, we planned to see the autumn foliage. Our destination was Nikko, one of the most famous tourist destinations in Japan. As always, the credit for all the travel arrangements — from accommodation to comfortable transportation — goes to my husband. He takes care of everything so perfectly that all I have to do is enjoy the trip. I spend all day taking care of our baby boy, so this trip is going to be an amazing getaway for me. Thankfully, my husband took care of all the arrangements, so all I have to do is enjoy every moment to the fullest.
It was a two-day getaway, and we set off from home early on Sunday around 5:30 a.m., with our baby boy happily bundled up and ready for his first autumn adventure. I made sure to pack everything carefully for our baby boy — honestly, I’ve been preparing since last Friday! You can never be too ready when traveling with a little one. We reached Minami Kurihashi around 8:00 a.m., but surprisingly, our train was delayed — something I had never experienced in Japan before! Due to the low population density in rural areas, trains don’t run as frequently as they do in Tokyo and its suburbs. Still, we managed to arrive at Tobu Nikko Station right on time.
It was a little but lively with a heavy crowd.
People are sitting and waiting.
Nikko ticketing station.
The Long Road to Kegon Waterfall
There was a long queue for the bus to Kegon Waterfall, but after patiently waiting, we finally managed to get on. It should have been a 45-minute ride took nearly two hours due to heavy traffic — something quite rare in Japan! Maybe it was because Monday was Cultural Day, a national holiday, that so many families were out enjoying the long weekend. I couldn’t help but wonder, does this happen every single day?
But when we finally got off the bus, all the fatigue and frustration simply melted away.
Our baby boy slept soundly leaning to my chest (thankfully!), and for a while, it was just the two of us — me and my husband — holding hands, quietly admiring the mountain scenery. With the view, I felt that our Family Trip to Nikko was going to be a grand one.
Tori gates at the town.
The view before us was so stunning that every ache from the journey was instantly forgotten.
What a view!!
Chuzenji Lake — A Lake Born of Fire
We walked toward Lake Chuzenji, which is located just a short distance from the waterfall. This particular lake was formed long ago by lava from Mount Nantai’s volcanic eruption. Geographically, it’s a fascinating natural wonder — a lake sitting high up on a mountain summit!
The autumn colors surrounding the lake were breathtaking. The reflection of the fiery trees on the calm water looked like nature’s own mirror of autumn.
Chuzenji Lake — A Lake Born of Fire at a distance.
See the beauty.
Are we roaming in a dreamy paradise!
Kegon Waterfall — Nature’s Grand Stage
Next, we took a short walk to Kegon Waterfall itself — one of Japan’s most iconic waterfalls. Standing nearly 100 meters tall, it’s truly a sight to behold. The thunderous rush of water, framed by the glowing autumn leaves, made the scene feel almost unreal.
It was also a special moment for us — our baby’s first time seeing a waterfall. I still remember how he stared wide-eyed at the roaring water in front of him, completely mesmerized.
What a magnificent view we are witnessing.
Lunch by the Lake
After exploring, we settled near the lakeside to enjoy our packed lunch. Traveling with an 11-month-old makes me a bit cautious about eating out, so we brought homemade food with us. Other than a quick stop for a hot coffee, we enjoyed our own simple meal, surrounded by nature.
Traveling with a baby changes everything — the pace, the priorities, even the way you see the world. Yes, there are naps, feedings, and diaper changes to plan around, but it also makes every little moment feel more precious. I know this stage of his life will pass so quickly, so I try to embrace it all without any complaints. That’s the beauty of motherhood, I am murmuring to myself.
We are so happy that our little champ is the most silent person whenever we are out. He must enjoy the moment at its best.
As we watched the boats drifting across the calm lake and the golden trees shimmering in the water’s reflection, I felt a deep sense of peace. It was one of those perfect, quiet family moments that stay with you forever. In this relationship, we are building and entrusting beautiful memories together.
Changing Plans
Because of the unexpected traffic and the time it consumed, we had to change our plans for the day. Visiting Nikko’s World Heritage sites — which we had originally scheduled for the afternoon — had to be postponed. We were all quite tired, and our baby especially needed a good, sound sleep. So, instead of rushing, we decided to head to our resting place in Oyama, ending the day on a calm and cozy note.
So, my next note is about our second day of the Family Trip to Nikko. Keep in touch!
