Yase, Kyoto
Head to the summit of Mt. Hiei using the Eizan Cable Car and Ropeway from Yase, Kyoto, a spot at the western base of Mt. Hiei which is famous for getting away from the summer heat. Boasting a height difference of 561 meters between stations, the Eizan Cable Car allows majestic scenery to be enjoyed in all seasons, including cherry blossoms, verdant greenery, and crimson leaves. After changing to the ropeway it is only three minutes to the summit. Enjoy a flight through the air from which you can look out over Kyoto city. (Does not operate between early January and mid-March).
Travel by Bus
Take the shuttle bus (fare required) from the Ropeway Mt. Hiei Summit Station and head to the Yokawa Area of Enryakuji Temple. (Time required: approximately 20 minutes, does not operate between early January and mid-March).
Yokawa
Yokawa is the most northern area from among the territory covered by Enryakuji Temple across all of Mt. Hiei. A place of ascetic training for many famous monks, a stern and sacred atmosphere remains here to this day. The Yokawa Chu-do with its vivid red lacquer is also characterized by its stage that sticks out like a terrace.
Minemichi Restaurant & Observatory
A restaurant that looks out over Lake Biwa, located between Yokawa and Sai-to. With a focus on locally produced ingredients, you can enjoy a lunch using famous Shiga Omi beef and free range chicken.
Sai-to
The Sai-to area is four kilometers south from Yokawa. Its main temple is the Shakado Hall, which as a 14th century building is one of the oldest in Enryakuji Temple. There is also the Ninaido where monks trained, and the Jodoin where Dengyo Daishi Saicho is buried.
Cable Railway
The return trip also uses the Sakamoto Cable Railway. The majesty of Lake Biwa spreads out below you.
To-do
The To-do area is where Enryakuji Temple first began. The main temple, the Konpon Chu-do hall, is a designated national treasure dedicated to Yakushi, and is also known as the "eternal light of Buddhism" due to a candle that has burned inside for more than 1200 years. There are also other historical halls and temples to see here.
Cable Railway
The return trip also uses the Sakamoto Cable Railway. The majesty of Lake Biwa spreads out below you.
Sakamoto Cable Railway
From the To-do area of Enryakuji Temple, take the Sakamoto Cable Railway and head to Sakamoto, the gateway town for Enryakuji Temple (requires 11 minutes). The dynamic scenery of Lake Biwa spreads away beneath you, an awe-inspiring sight. After arriving in Sakamoto, a stroll through the town with its impressive stone walls also comes highly recommended.
