[2025 Otsu Attraction] Travel Guide for Enryaku-ji Temple (Updated Mar)

To reach the top of the Yanli Temple, you need to take the cable car of the Biru Mountain. The Sakamoto Cable Car Station was built in the 2nd year of the Showa era. The station itself completely preserves the European architectural style of the Taisho era and enters the cable car station. There is an inexplicable feeling of crossing! It is arranged like a green leather train station in the past. Even the rest seats are green. Is it a retro style? This is also a heart, cool! There are manual ticketing windows and ticketing machines. I recommend buying tickets on the machine. Because you can choose to speak in several languages such as Simplified Chinese, the operation process is very simple. The adult round trip is 1620 yen. The cable car departs every half hour, and the seat in the car is set in the opposite direction to the direction of travel (the side close to the mountain), and it feels like it is pulled up from the back when it is up. After arriving at the Birui Mountain Yanli Temple Station, an exit hall is a viewing platform where you can see the panoramic view of Wuhu. The view is very wide, and the distant Wuhu Bridge, characteristic buildings and temples are clearly visible.

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 Hieisan Enryakuji Temple is a tourist attraction located at the junction of Kyoto and Shiga. It has relatively few tourists, but due to its high terrain, you can overlook Lake Biwa facing Shiga. The scenery is pretty good, and you can enjoy the comfort of hiking in the forest. It is highly recommended for those who like nature hiking. The world heritage site of Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei is the head temple of the Tendai sect. The temple grounds are located in the dense cedar forest on the mountain. The temple covers an area of ​​nearly 1,700 hectares, which is very vast. The entire area can be divided into three parts: the East Pagoda where the core of the temple is located, the West Pagoda with dense cedar forests, and the Yokogawa River deeper in the mountains. Each of the three districts has its own representative temple, the Konbutsu-chudo in the East Tower, the Jodo-in in the West Tower, and the Yokogawa-chudo in Yokogawa. The East Tower is quite far from the West Tower and Yokogawa, but you can take a bus back and forth. If you want to visit all three areas, you will need at least one day. As for transportation, the most convenient option is to take a direct bus from Kyoto Station, which costs ¥790 for a single trip. You can also choose to take the Eiden cable car from Kyoto or the cable car from Lake Biwa, but you have to time your trip well. #KyotoTravel #HieizanEnryakuji Temple

Lake Biwa is a favorite cherry blossom spot for seasoned travelers to Japan. Compared to Kyoto, there are fewer people here, and there are many attractions around the lake that are perfect for in-depth travel. To get to Lake Biwa, you usually go to Otsu first, which is the capital of Shiga Prefecture and very close to Kyoto. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Biwako Line to Otsu Station, which takes about 10 minutes. Otsu has the third most historical sites and Buddha statues in Japan, after Nara and Kyoto. Here, the World Heritage Site "Enryaku-ji Temple" on Mount Hiei, the "Ishiyama-dera Temple" that inspired "The Tale of Genji," and the Sanno Shrine Hiyoshi Taisha are all must-see attractions. If you've been to the Rurikoin Temple in Kyoto but were put off by the crowds, you should definitely visit the Old Chikurin-in Temple next to the Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Otsu, which is just as beautiful. In addition, there are three islands in Lake Biwa, and Chikubu Island is the most worth visiting. In Takashima, there are two must-see places: the Torii Gate in the lake at Shirahige Shrine and the Metasequoia Avenue. About 500 metasequoia trees are planted along the Metasequoia Avenue, which is beautiful in all seasons and perfect for taking photos. Omihachiman is an ancient city on the shores of Lake Biwa, where you can feel the full Edo period Japanese style. Of course, food is also an important part of travel. When you come here, you must not miss Omi beef, one of the three major Wagyu beef in Japan. In addition to sightseeing and food, the Lake Biwa cruise is also worth a try. There are three Lake Biwa cruise itineraries: the Michigan cruise, the Chikubu Island cruise, and the Lake Biwa Island cruise. In addition to lake sightseeing, the Michigan cruise also offers live concerts and onboard dining, which is perfect for those who like lively activities. In addition, taking the cable car to the top of Mount Horai is also very special, and you can take stunning videos.

Winter break in Japan, 4-day itinerary! Experience authentic Japanese culture, don't miss it! 🌟🎉 / Japan is located in East Asia and has a long and rich history. 🗾🏯 From Mount Fuji 🗻 to the ancient streets of Kyoto 🏞️, the country exudes a unique island charm. Often referred to as the Land of Cherry Blossoms 🌸, Japan is a great place to explore. / 🎈Itinerary: DAY 1: 🛫 Arrive in Osaka - 🚗 Airport transfer - 🛏 Check in to a hotel in Kyoto Arrive in Japan with ease, enjoy a thoughtful airport transfer, check in to a comfortable hotel, and get ready for an exciting trip! DAY 2: Arashiyama - Sagano Scenic Railway - Kiyomizu-dera Temple - Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka - Yasaka Shrine - Hanamikoji Street Travel through the greenery of Arashiyama, take a scenic train ride, and experience the fusion of nature and history. Visit the tranquility of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, savor the charm of the ancient streets, feel the mystery of the shrine, and enjoy the romance of the ancient capital at night. DAY 3: Kyū Chikurin-in Garden - Enryaku-ji Temple - Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine - Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine Experience the exquisite Japanese garden at Kyū Chikurin-in, the Zen atmosphere at Enryaku-ji Temple, and pray for your journey at Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine. Finally, stroll through the thousands of torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, each step is a spiritual cleansing. DAY 4: 🚗 Private transfer - ✈ Kansai International Airport End your wonderful trip to Kyoto with a private transfer to Kansai International Airport, and return home with fond memories. / Must-see attractions: 🚂 Sagano Scenic Railway: Travel along the Hozu River, accompanied by cherry blossoms, and enjoy the spring scenery. ⛩️ Kiyomizu-dera Temple: A tranquil ancient temple surrounded by greenery. Enjoy cherry blossoms in spring and maple leaves in autumn, both seasons are charming. 🌸 Arashiyama: Cherry blossoms and maple leaves dance together, the poetic Togetsukyo Bridge by the Katsura River, and the Zen temples and shrines are thought-provoking. / Travel essentials: 🧳 Don't forget to bring these things when you go to Japan! 📞 SIM card, convenient for contact, no fear of getting lost. 🔌 Plug adapter, Japan has a different voltage, this is a must-have. 🪪 Passport, visa, driver's license, complete documents, worry-free travel. 👚 If you go to Japan in January, bring a thick coat and thermal underwear, don't get cold. 🔋 Charger, power bank, a charged phone is reassuring. 💊 Common medicine and some first aid supplies, just in case. / 🎉 I hope this guide will help you have a more exciting trip to Japan and enjoy your time in the Land of Cherry Blossoms! 🎉

Located on the border between Shiga Prefecture and Kyoto Prefecture in Japan, Mount Hiei is the birthplace of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism. Enryakuji Temple, as its central temple, not only has a long history but also holds deep religious and cultural significance. As I set foot on this towering sacred mountain, I was filled with awe and anticipation. Its sacred atmosphere and secluded tranquility deeply attracted me. 1. Ascending Mount Hiei - Stepping Towards the Sacred The transportation to Mount Hiei is not complicated. You can choose to depart from Kyoto or Otsu and take the Hiei Electric Railway or the cable car. As the cable car crosses the valley and gradually ascends to the top of the mountain, a vast expanse of lush green forest unfolds before my eyes, as if entering a world isolated from the mundane. Along the way up the mountain, ancient temples and solemn buildings can be seen everywhere, harmoniously blending with the natural scenery, showcasing a beautiful coexistence of humanity and nature. Every time I passed by a small Zen temple, the clear sound of bells and the chanting of monks echoed in my ears, making me feel an indescribable peace. 2. Enryakuji Temple - Witnessing the Historical Buddhist Sanctuary Enryakuji Temple was founded by the monk Saicho in 788 AD and has a history of over a thousand years. It is not only the birthplace of the Tendai sect but also a Buddhist sanctuary that attracts countless believers and tourists for pilgrimage and worship. Great Lecture Hall The Great Lecture Hall of Enryakuji Temple is one of its main halls, with a magnificent exterior and housing a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. Stepping into the Great Lecture Hall, the serene atmosphere slows down one's pace, filling the heart with reverence for the Dharma. The carvings, paintings, and ancient Buddha statues inside and outside the hall convey a profound religious culture. Konpon Chudo Konpon Chudo is one of the oldest and most important buildings of Enryakuji Temple and the religious core of the Tendai sect. The architectural structure here is very simple, yet it exudes immense solemnity and sanctity. Every visitor who comes here unconsciously bows their head, experiencing the tranquility and sanctity of Buddhism. The Training Ground of the Thousand-Day Circumambulation Practice Mount Hiei is not only a destination for tourists but also a place for monks to practice. It is said that the Thousand-Day Circumambulation Practice is an extremely rigorous training method, requiring monks to walk around the major temples of Mount Hiei and practice for several years. Whenever I think of how these practitioners spent their arduous years on this sacred mountain, I am filled with respect. 3. The Natural Beauty of Mount Hiei - The Fresh Air of the Sacred Mountain Mount Hiei not only has profound religious culture but is also a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. Stepping out from the various temples of Enryakuji, the scenery at the top of the mountain is spectacular. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom all over the mountain; in summer, the trees are lush; in autumn, the leaves are fiery red; and in winter, the mountain is covered with white snow. The changing seasons present mesmerizing views. A Panoramic View from the Mountain Top Standing at the top of Mount Hiei, looking out, Lake Biwa appears like a giant mirror, reflecting the blue sky and white clouds. The distant Kyoto and Otsu cities are faintly visible in the hazy distance. These magnificent views make one feel refreshed, as if all worries are blown away by the wind. Ancient Forest Paths and Hiking Trails The hiking trails of Mount Hiei are densely forested, and the winding paths are always intriguing. Walking on these ancient hiking trails, with towering ancient trees on both sides, sunlight filtering through the leaves casting dappled shadows, each step brings a more peaceful state of mind. These trails are not only suitable for meditation but also an excellent place for close contact with nature. 4. Zen Meditation and Quiet Sitting - Time for Inner Dialogue At Mount Hiei, you can not only enjoy the magnificent natural scenery but also experience local Zen meditation activities. Many temples offer short-term Zen meditation experiences, giving visitors the opportunity to meditate and sit quietly in a serene environment. Zen Meditation Experience During the Zen meditation course, I sat on a Zen cushion with other visitors, closed my eyes, focused my attention, and immersed myself in the surrounding tranquility. Time seemed to stand still, leaving only a dialogue with my inner self. This period of quiet meditation not only brought relaxation to my body and mind but also gave me a deeper understanding of Buddhist practice. 5. Conclusion - The Spiritual Journey to Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei Mount Hiei's Enryakuji Temple is not only a religious sanctuary but also a place for spiritual reflection and finding inner peace. Whether it is its history, architecture, natural scenery, or the Zen meditation experience, I felt a profound power on this sacred land. If you seek tranquility in the midst of a busy life, Mount Hiei's Enryakuji Temple is undoubtedly a worthwhile spiritual retreat.

Enryakuji Temple, located in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, is the head temple of the Tendai sect. 🙏 The temple grounds are situated at an altitude of 848 meters and can be accessed from both the Kyoto and Shiga sides. 🚃 There are various ways to get there, including buses, cable cars, and ropeways. It is recommended to choose the best route from the official Enryakuji website. You can also access it by private car. Enryakuji is divided into three areas: Todo (East Pagoda), Saito (West Pagoda), and Yokokawa. You can visit each area in sequence using a shuttle bus. 🚌 By the way, if you use a private car, you can visit each area in a shorter time as you won't have to wait for the bus. 🚗 If you are short on time, you can just visit the main Todo area! It's an incredibly calming place, making it the perfect temple for seeking relaxation. ✨ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Facility Name: Enryakuji Temple Address: 4220 Sakamoto Honmachi, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, 520-0116 Access: About 65-70 minutes from Kyoto Station Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Enryaku-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located on Mount Hiei in Otsu City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. It is the headquarters of the Tendai Sect. It is one of the oldest temples in Japan and the only one in Japan that has both "National Treasure" and "World Heritage" A distinguished temple. Enryaku-ji Temple was founded in 788 AD by Master Saicho and is the birthplace of the Tendai Sect of Japanese Buddhism. The Enryaku-ji Temple complex is large-scale, covering an area of ​​about 1,700 hectares. It is divided into three areas: East Tower, West Tower and Yokogawa, with a total of more than 150 temples. Among them, the East Pagoda area is the core area of ​​Enryaku-ji Temple, including Enryaku-ji Temple's main main hall, "Nemoto Nakado" and "Fahua Hall", as well as "Enryaku-ji Temple Five-story Pagoda" and other important buildings. Enryaku-ji Temple is an important heritage of Japanese history and culture and an important center of Japanese Buddhism. The architectural complex of Enryaku-ji Temple is the essence of traditional Japanese architecture, and its historical and cultural value is deeply respected by the Japanese people. Visit the architectural complex of Enryaku-ji Temple and experience the essence of traditional Japanese architecture. You can also take a guided tour of Enryaku-ji Temple to learn about the history and culture of Enryaku-ji Temple, visit the temple and feel the Buddhist atmosphere. Enryaku-ji Temple is an important treasure of Japanese history and culture and an important center of Japanese Buddhism. If you have the opportunity to come to Kyoto, you must come here to experience the charm of this ancient temple. #日本must-go check-in point #Enryakuji Temple #天台宗正山 #HIEI山 #KYOTO #HistoryCulture #Religion