Enryaku-ji Kyoto
A vast Tendai Buddhist monastery on Mount Hiei, offering spiritual tranquility and panoramic views away from Kyoto's bustle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Enryaku-ji Kyoto
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast Tendai Buddhist monastery on Mount Hiei, offering spiritual tranquility and panoramic views away from Kyoto's bustle.
"A very nice quiet tourist destination away from busy Kyoto with amazing views."
🎯 Cable Car Savings
Consider package tickets for transport and entry to save money on your Mt. Hiei adventure.
👟 Hike or Cable Car?
Choose between a scenic hike or the longest cable car in Japan for your ascent.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Enryaku-ji Temple Complex
Mount Hiei
A vast Tendai Buddhist monastery complex offering spiritual tranquility and stunning views.
Japan's Longest Cable Car
Sakamoto
Ascend Mount Hiei via the impressive Sakamoto cable car for breathtaking panoramic vistas.
Mount Hiei Forest Trails
Mount Hiei
Hike through serene forests to reach the temples, a peaceful alternative to the cable car.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds and Heat
Getting to Mount Hiei
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Cable Car Savings
Consider package tickets for transport and entry to save money on your Mt. Hiei adventure.
👟 Hike or Cable Car?
Choose between a scenic hike or the longest cable car in Japan for your ascent.
🐻 Bear Safety
While rare, carry a bell to make your presence known in the mountain forests.
🧥 Mountain Weather
Pack layers as temperatures on Mount Hiei can be cooler and weather can change rapidly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Cable Car Savings
Consider package tickets for transport and entry to save money on your Mt. Hiei adventure.
👟 Hike or Cable Car?
Choose between a scenic hike or the longest cable car in Japan for your ascent.
🐻 Bear Safety
While rare, carry a bell to make your presence known in the mountain forests.
🧥 Mountain Weather
Pack layers as temperatures on Mount Hiei can be cooler and weather can change rapidly.
🤫 Respectful Visits
Remember to be quiet and respectful on temple grounds for a peaceful experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Enryaku-ji offers a peaceful escape from Kyoto's crowds with stunning views and historical significance. While some find the entrance and transport fees steep for the experience, others appreciate its spiritual depth and natural beauty. It's a destination that rewards those interested in Japanese Buddhism and history.
"Very nice quiet tourist destination away from busy Kyoto. Amazing view of Lake Biwa. Recommend coming in fall or Sakura season. Reminder to be quiet and respectful on Temple grounds.
When going, recommend to take the cable car in Sakamoto(坂本), it is the longest cable car in Japan."
Vincent Yuan
"From religious point of view: very important place and definitely worth it of you are interested in Japanese branch pf Buddhism and Japanese history and culture in general.
General tourist point of view: there is really nothing special about it that would justify the entrance fee of 1000¥ + the cable or ropeway if you decide to take it for 1800¥ roundway. Any smaller temple in nature is just as beautiful.
It really depends on what kind of tourist you are."
Finite Trips
"Beautiful place, very peaceful and spiritual. The architecture is quite marvelous and to think they built it so high up in the mountains is astonishing."
Katie W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Enryaku-ji on Mount Hiei by taking the Keihan line from Kyoto to a local Eizan train, which leads to the base of the funicular (cable car). This then connects to a ropeway that takes you to the summit. Alternatively, you can take the JR Kosei Line to Hieizan-Sakamoto station and either walk or take a bus to the complex.
Yes, it's possible to hike to Enryaku-ji. One route from Sakamoto station takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, and you can use the Yamap app for navigation.
The journey from Kyoto to Mount Hiei, including the cable car and ropeway, can take around 45 minutes to an hour one way. Allow ample time for exploring the complex.
The cable car from Sakamoto to Mount Hiei is recognized as the longest cable car in Japan, offering a scenic ascent.
Yes, Mount Hiei is accessible year-round. The cable car on the Kyoto side operates throughout the year, making it a viable winter destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for Enryaku-ji is approximately 1000 JPY. Package tickets that include transportation from Kyoto and access to the cable car/ropeway can offer savings.
Purchasing a package ticket is recommended as it often covers transportation from Kyoto, the cable car/ropeway, and entrance fees, potentially saving you money compared to individual purchases.
Package tickets typically cover transportation from Kyoto, the cable car or ropeway to Mount Hiei, and entrance to the Enryaku-ji temple complex. Some may also include local bus transport on the mountain.
Enryaku-ji itself is generally accessible year-round. However, the Garden Museum on Mount Hiei is closed during winter months (December-April).
Yes, you can purchase tickets on-site, but it's advisable to check for package deals beforehand, especially if you plan to use multiple modes of transport.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
A visit to Enryaku-ji and Mount Hiei can take a significant portion of your day. Expect to spend around 4-5 hours, including travel time and exploring the temple complex.
Enryaku-ji is a vast complex with multiple temples spread across Mount Hiei. Key areas include the East Pagoda, the Central Pagoda, and various halls, offering a spiritual and historical experience.
While Enryaku-ji is a spiritual site, the natural surroundings and the cable car ride can be enjoyable for children. However, it's primarily an adult-oriented historical and religious destination.
Mount Hiei offers stunning panoramic views, including Lake Biwa on the eastern side and the city of Kyoto on the western side, especially on clear days.
Enryaku-ji is known for its serene and spiritual atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Kyoto. It's ideal for those seeking tranquility.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the ancient temple architecture against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains and forests. The panoramic views of Lake Biwa and Kyoto are also excellent photo opportunities.
Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage, while spring showcases cherry blossoms, making both seasons ideal for photography. Early mornings or late afternoons can provide softer light and fewer crowds.
Generally, photography is allowed in outdoor areas. However, always be mindful of signage and respect any restrictions within specific temple buildings or sacred areas.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at religious sites and national parks to maintain peace and prevent disturbance. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive temple grounds and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be good for distant views of Lake Biwa or Kyoto.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider the package tickets to simplify transportation logistics and manage costs. The expansive temple grounds offer space to roam, but keep an eye on younger children, especially near steep paths or in wooded areas. The natural beauty and the unique experience of reaching a mountain temple can be memorable for kids.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Solo travelers can easily spend half a day or more exploring the various temple buildings and enjoying the panoramic views. The package tickets are convenient for independent travel, and the well-marked trails ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers
Take your time to explore the various pagodas and halls, and absorb the centuries of spiritual practice that have taken place here. The tranquil environment is conducive to meditation and reflection, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the spiritual heritage of Japan.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Enryaku-ji
Enryaku-ji is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting its global cultural importance. The temple complex is divided into three main areas: To-to (East Pagoda), Saito (West Pagoda), and Yokawa. Each area has its own unique atmosphere and historical significance, offering visitors a deep dive into Japanese religious history and architecture.
Visiting Enryaku-ji offers a chance to connect with centuries of spiritual practice and historical events. The sheer scale of the complex, perched atop Mount Hiei, is awe-inspiring. It's a place where you can feel the weight of history and the tranquility of a sacred mountain.
Navigating Mount Hiei: Transport and Trails
+1For the more adventurous, hiking trails wind through the mountain's forests. One popular route starts from Hieizan-Sakamoto station and takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach Enryaku-ji. These trails offer a more intimate experience with nature and a sense of accomplishment upon arrival. Remember to download a trail map, like the one on the Yamap app, for guidance.
Once on Mount Hiei, local buses connect the different temple areas, especially useful if you choose to hike up or want to explore the spread-out complex efficiently. Be aware that the cable car and ropeway can be a significant expense, so consider package deals if you plan to use them.
Experiencing Serenity: Enryaku-ji's Atmosphere
The natural setting of Mount Hiei further enhances the serene experience. Surrounded by forests and offering sweeping views, the environment itself encourages mindfulness. Whether you're exploring ancient temple halls or walking along forest paths, there's a pervasive sense of peace that resonates throughout the complex.
It's important for visitors to maintain this tranquility by being quiet and respectful on temple grounds. This consideration ensures that the peaceful ambiance of Enryaku-ji is preserved for all who visit.
Social
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