Shiga > Enryakuji (延暦寺): The spiritual heart at the top of Mount Hieizan
※Description:
Enryakuji (延暦寺), located atop Mount Hieizan (比叡山), is a Buddhist temple complex with over 1,200 years of history and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Located between Kyoto and Shiga, this place combines serenity, nature and a rich cultural heritage, making it a must-see destination for lovers of spirituality and natural beauty.
Mount Hieizan offers spectacular views of Lake Biwako (琵琶湖), the largest lake in Japan, surrounded by mountains and forests that change color according to the season. The area is known for its tranquility and its ability to convey a sense of deep peace. High on the mountain, the Enryakuji complex is home to numerous temples, each with its own history and significance. This site is also the birthplace of the Tendai Buddhist sect and has witnessed centuries of spiritual practice.
Access to the mountain can be made via Japan’s longest cable car, which provides an unforgettable scenic ride through the forest. This experience is perfect for those looking for a comfortable and scenic way to reach the summit.
Enryakuji is divided into three main areas: Todo (東堂), Saito (西堂), and Yokawa (横川), each with its own set of temples and nooks to explore. The main section houses the Konpon Chu-do (根本中堂), a building that has remained the spiritual heart of the complex since its founding.
Enryakuji offers a unique opportunity to connect with history, nature and spirituality, all in a setting that seems suspended between heaven and earth. An ideal place to reflect, walk and admire the grandeur of the Japanese landscape.
※NTRanking: 7.0 / 10
Enryakuji(延暦寺) is a destination known primarily among Japanese tourists and those interested in history and Buddhism. Although it does receive international visitors, it does not have the same level of popularity as other nearby temples in Kyoto, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore a quiet, culturally significant place without the huge crowds.
※How to Get There:
・From Kyoto (about 1 hour):
Take the JR Kosei Line from Kyoto Station (京都駅).
Get off at Hieizan-Sakamoto Station (比叡山坂本駅), a ride of about 20 minutes.
From there, take the Sakamoto Cableway (坂本ケーブル), which is the longest in Japan, to go up Mount Hieizan to the Shiga-Sakamoto area. Enryakuji.
・From Fukui (about 2 hours 30 minutes):
Take the JR Hokuriku Line from Fukui Station (福井駅).
Get off at Otsu Station (大津駅), which will take about 1 hour 50 minutes.
Change to the JR Kosei Line and get off at Hieizan-Sakamoto Station (比叡山坂本駅), a ride of about 10 minutes.
From there, take the Sakamoto cable car (坂本ケーブル) to reach Hieizan Mountain and Enryakuji.
・From Nagoya (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes):
Take the Shinkansen train from Nagoya Station (名古屋駅) to Kyoto Station (京都駅), which will take about 40 minutes.
From Kyoto, take the JR Kosei Line to Hieizan-Sakamoto Station (比叡山坂本駅), a journey time of about 20 minutes.
From the station, use the Sakamoto Cableway (坂本ケーブル) to reach the Enryakuji complex.
※Address:
4220 Sakamotohonmachi, Otsu, Shiga 520-0116
