Shiga > Sakamoto Cable Car (坂本ケーブル): Take the Longest Cable Car in Japan
※Description:
The Sakamoto Ropeway (坂本ケーブル) is a unique experience in Japan, famous for being the longest ropeway in the country. Located on Mount Hieizan (比叡山) in Shiga Prefecture (滋賀県), it connects the base of the mountain at Sakamoto Station (坂本駅) to the top station, from where you can access the historic Enryakuji Temple (延暦寺).
With a length of 2 kilometers, the journey ascends impressively through the dense vegetation of the mountain, offering spectacular views along the way. Although it is an unforgettable experience, it is not suitable for those who suffer from vertigo, as the angle of ascent and the heights can be shocking.
Upon reaching the top station, visitors are greeted by a viewing platform that offers a panoramic view of the majestic Lake Biwako (琵琶湖), the largest lake in Japan, and its surroundings. This point is ideal for taking in the natural scenery of the region, especially during the fall, when the colors of the leaves create a spectacular scene.
The funicular was opened in 1927, becoming an important means of transportation for pilgrims and tourists visiting Mount Hieizan. Over the years, it has maintained its role as an icon of the region, allowing convenient access to one of Japan’s most iconic places, while preserving its historical and cultural value.
The Sakamoto Funicular is close to Kyoto, although it is not well known to foreign tourists. Moreover, it is not just a means of transport, but an experience in itself that combines nature, history and adventure, leaving an unforgettable impression on all who visit it.
※NTRanking: 7.5 / 10
The Sakamoto Ropeway (坂本ケーブル) is a destination known primarily among domestic tourists and those interested in Mount Hieizan and Enryakuji Temple (延暦寺). While its unique experience as Japan’s longest ropeway and panoramic views of Lake Biwako are impressive, the number of foreign visitors is relatively moderate as many prioritize other, more iconic destinations in the Kyoto region.
※How to Get There:
・From Kyoto (about 1 hour 30 minutes):
Take the JR Kosei Line from Kyoto Station (京都駅).
Get off at Hieizan-Sakamoto Station (比叡山坂本駅), which will take about 20 minutes.
From there, walk or take a local bus to Sakamoto Cable Station (坂本ケーブル駅).
Take the longest cable car in Japan to Enryakuji Cable Station (ケーブル延暦寺駅).
・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 35 minutes.
Follow the signs from Kyoto, taking the JR Kosei Line to Hieizan-Sakamoto (比叡山坂本駅) and the funicular.
・From Fukui (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes):
Take the JR Hokuriku Line from Fukui Station (福井駅) to Otsukyo Station (大津京駅), a ride that takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Change to the JR Kosei Line and get off at Hieizan-Sakamoto (比叡山坂本駅), which will take about 5 minutes.
From there, head to Sakamoto Cable Station (坂本ケーブル駅) and take the cable car to Enryakuji Cable Station (ケーブル延暦寺駅).
※Address:
4244 Sakamoto Motomachi, Otsu, Shiga 520-0116
