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Enryaku-ji Temple (Mount Hiei)

Name: Enryaku-ji Temple (Mount Hiei)
Address: 4220 Sakamotohonmachi, Otsu, Shiga 520-0116, Japan
Rating: 4.4

4.4 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Place Of Worship・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Enryaku-ji Temple, on Mount Hiei, is a famous Buddhist monastery in Japan. Built in 788 by Saicho, it marks the start of Japanese Tendai Buddhism. The temple complex is spread over Mount Hiei, near Kyoto.

Enryaku-ji Temple has a rich history and has played a key role in Japanese Buddhism. The temple became a major center for Buddhist learning, attracting many monks. Famous monks like Honen and Nichiren studied there. The complex includes several important buildings, such as the Konpon Chu-do, the main hall. Despite fires and wars, many structures have been rebuilt and preserved.

Mount Hiei is also known for its natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, especially in autumn, when the leaves change colors. The temple's peaceful surroundings make it a popular spot for reflection and meditation.

Enryaku-ji is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its cultural significance. It's a place where history, nature, and spirituality come together, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich religious traditions.

Hours:

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Admission Fee:

1,000 yen (500 yen for the treasure house)

Hours

Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Phone

+81 77-578-0001

Website

www.hieizan.or.jp

The area

Address

4220 Sakamotohonmachi, Otsu, Shiga 520-0116, Japan

Top ways to experience Enryaku-ji Temple (Mount Hiei)

7hrs

Kyoto Scenic Bus Tour to Sanzen-in & Enryaku-ji

From $67 /person

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Hire a Private Local Guide for a Day in Kyoto

From $389 /person

Chartered Sightseeing Taxi in Kyoto 2-hour Course

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What other travelers are saying about Enryaku-ji Temple (Mount Hiei)

Very nice quiet tourist destination away from busy Kyoto. Amazing view of Lake Biwa. Recommend coming in fall or Sakura season. Reminder to be quiet and respectful on Temple grounds. When going, recommend to take the cable car in Sakamoto(坂本), it is the longest cable car in Japan.

Vincent Yuan

Jan 24, 2025

From religious point of view: very important place and definitely worth it of you are interested in Japanese branch pf Buddhism and Japanese history and culture in general. General tourist point of view: there is really nothing special about it that would justify the entrance fee of 1000¥ + the cable or ropeway if you decide to take it for 1800¥ roundway. Any smaller temple in nature is just as beautiful. It really depends on what kind of tourist you are.

Finite Trips

Jan 1, 2025

Impressive Temple embedded in the hills overlooking Biwa-Ko. A number of temples make up the entire collection. They can be reached via a Ropeway (Japan's longest at 2025m), or via a pleasant hike through the forest. A admission fee applies, but this goes towards the restoration efforts. At present, one of the main temples is undergoing restoration efforts, however it can still be viewed from within the protective structure.

Robert Nelson

Feb 3, 2025

Enryakuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Mount Hieizan, is a treasure trove of history, spirituality, and stunning natural beauty. As the birthplace of Japanese Tendai Buddhism, it holds immense cultural and religious significance. The temple complex is vast, with beautifully preserved buildings spread across serene forested grounds. Each area offers a unique glimpse into its rich history. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for reflection, and the views of Lake Biwa from the mountain are breathtaking. Whether you’re interested in history, Buddhism, or simply seeking tranquility, Enryakuji Temple is a must-visit destination near Kyoto!

Gemi Komah

Dec 19, 2024

A fantastic place where this temple sits on Mount Hiei , a quite and beautiful place to worship God. The east temple is accessible via the cable car from Otsu city. Buy the package ticket because it definitely will save you a lot . It covers transportation from Kyoto, cable car, entrance to the temple and the bus around Mt. Hiei. There are 3 temples which you need to take the bus to get there. one trip is not cheap. End to end costs you 800 yen , so package ticket is useful here.