Full-Day private guided tour to Mount Hiei (Enryaku-ji)

Visit Mount Hiei on a private full-day tour and explore the historic Enryaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled between Kyoto and Otsu. The tour takes you to the East Pagoda area, where you’ll find the Konpon Chudo, the temple’s main hall and a centerpiece of its long history. Surrounded by tranquil nature, this mountain setting offers a refreshing break and a chance to experience Japan’s spiritual heritage.

Your guide, an expert in Japanese history, will share the fascinating stories of Enryaku-ji, founded in the 8th century and influential during the Warring States period. Learn about the temple’s role in shaping Japanese Buddhism while enjoying the serene mountain atmosphere.

What’s Covered

• Professional guide services

• Guide’s transport, lunch, and entrance fees

What’s Extra

• Food & drinks

• Transport fees (less than 2,000 JPY/person/day)

• Enryaku-ji Temple Entrance fee (1,000 JPY/person)

• Less than 2,000 JPY/person

Good to Know

• The tour is stroller and pram accessible for families with young children.

• Pets are welcome to join the experience.

• Convenient access to public transportation is available nearby.

• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

• Infants should have their own seating arrangement; sitting on laps is not permitted.

• Infant seats are not provided during the tour.

• This is a private day tour, offering a personalized experience.

• The tour lasts approximately 6 hours.

Tour Itinerary

Meeting Point

• Kyoto Station

Address: 〒600-8216 JP Kyoto

Meet your guide at Kyoto Station, where we’ll begin our journey to Mount Hiei.

Trip to Mount Hiei

• Duration: 1 hour

Travel by bus to Mount Hiei, enjoying scenic views of Kyoto and Otsu along the way. Capture stunning photos and videos of the landscapes as we ascend to the mountain.

East Pagoda and Amidado

• Duration: 1 hour

Begin the visit at the temple gate, symbolizing the transition from the human world to the spiritual realm. Explore the serene atmosphere and historical significance of the East Pagoda and the Amidado Pavilion.

Kaidan-in Pavilion

• Duration: 30 minutes

Admire the striking red façade of the Kaidan-in Pavilion. Its vibrant color and unique architecture make it a perfect spot for photos and lasting memories.

Enryaku-ji Auditorium

• Duration: 45 minutes

Discover the study hall where Buddhist monks have trained for centuries. Feel the calm, reflective atmosphere and ring the giant bell to make a wish.

Konpon Chudo Main Hall

• Duration: 1 hour

Visit the main hall, Konpon Chudo, which is currently under renovation until 2026. Learn about traditional Japanese architectural restoration and explore nearby highlights like the Hall for World Peace and Monju-ro Gate.

Return to Kyoto Station

• Duration: 1 hour

After a day of history and nature, relax on the bus ride back to Kyoto Station.

Related Read: 17 Must-visit Temples and Shrines in Kyoto