Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple

Overview

Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple is a significant Tendai Buddhist temple complex located on the summit of Mount Hiei, overlooking Kyoto. It is one of the most important temples in Japanese history, founded in 788 by Saicho, the founder of the Tendai sect.

Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key religious and cultural landmark in Japan, known for its historical importance and architectural beauty.

Temple Historical Site Cultural Site

Location

Address

4220 Sakamotohonmachi, Otsu, Japan

Neighborhood: Sakamoto

Coordinates

35.139000, 135.902000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Admission

Adults

500 JPY

Children

Free (under 15 years old)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• cherry blossoms
• green foliage

summer

hot and humid

• lush greenery
• cool mountain breezes

autumn

cool and comfortable

• autumn colors
• crisp air

winter

cold, possible snow

• snowy landscapes
• holiday lights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Dress modestly
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID Comfortable walking shoes Cash for offerings

seasonal

Warm jacket Rain gear Umbrella

not allowed

Large backpacks Drones Pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate (some steep paths and stairs)

• Altitude sickness (for those not used to elevation)
• Dehydration

Medical facilities: First aid available at the visitor center

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB)

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Typical Costs

entry 500 JPY

parking 500 JPY

food 1000-2000 JPY

souvenirs 500-5000 JPY

Dress Code

Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered), Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, Revealing clothing, High heels

Booking Tips

• At least 1 week in advance for peak seasons
• Official website or authorized travel agencies
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• Available for online ticket purchases

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Enryaku-ji Temple Guide

Size: 60 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Historical information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafeteria, Main Hall area

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafeteria

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Distance: 110 km

Travel Time: 2.5 hours

taxi

20,000 JPY 2 hours

public_transport

3,500 JPY 3 hours

From City Center

Distance: 10 km (from Kyoto)

bus

720 JPY 50 minutes

train

410 JPY 15 minutes to station, then bus to temple

taxi

3,000 JPY 30 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple is a place of deep spiritual significance and historical importance. Locals visit for pilgrimage, meditation, and to connect with the rich cultural heritage of Japan.

Historical Significance: The temple was founded in 788 by Saicho, the founder of the Tendai sect, and has played a crucial role in the development of Japanese Buddhism. It has been a center of learning and religious practice for over 1,200 years.

Insider Tips

The best views are from the Yokawa District
Visit the nearby Shigatsubo Museum for a deeper understanding of the temple's history
The temple's tofu dishes are a local specialty worth trying

Local Recommendations

• Try the local tofu dishes at the nearby restaurants
• Visit the nearby Shigatsubo Museum for a deeper understanding of the temple's history
• Ask for a guided tour by a resident monk for a unique experience

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Konnichiwa

thank_you Arigatou gozaimasu

where_is Doko desu ka

how_much Ikura desu ka

beautiful Kirei desu

ticket Kippu

Guide Languages: Japanese, English, Chinese

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main Hall (Konpon Chūdō)

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Capture the morning light on the wooden structure

Result: Stunning architectural details

#Enryakuji #TemplePhotography #JapanTravel

Yokawa District

Best Time: Late afternoon

Tips: Use the natural light for a warm glow

Result: Serene and peaceful shots

#Yokawa #Templete #MountainViews

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, courtyards, designated photography spots

prohibited areas Interior of sanctuaries, private areas

flash photography Not allowed in interior spaces

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Prohibited without special permission

tripod policy Restricted to designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed in outdoor areas

Nearby Attractions

Shigatsubo Museum

Distance: 200m

Walking: 3 min

Type: Museum

Kibune Shrine

Distance: 2km

Walking: 30 min

Type: Shinto Shrine

Lake Biwa

Distance: 5km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Lake

Reviews

4.6

Based on 1,200 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book tickets online in advance"
"Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience"
"Try the local tofu dishes at the cafeteria"

Contact Information

+81-77-578-0001

info@enryakuji.com

www.enryakuji.com

Social Media

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