Enryaku-ji Temple

Visited in July recently. Reached here from Kyoto station with a train ride, then a bus, a cable car, a ropeway and finally a hike. It may sound overwhelming but journey itself is worth it and the destination is as good as Koyozumi-dera. The accessibility is definitely why there are not many tourists here This temple grounds is quite big. Unfortunately during our visit the main hall was under renovation. May just visit again if ever in Kyoto again.

We walked about 10 minutes from the cable car station to the temple. It was a clear and crisp day which made the short stroll really enjoyable. There is a loop bus that goes to the Heizan-Sakamoto JR station.

Visited this place during public holiday in September, 2025. One of the historical building/temple was undergoing restoration. Overall, had good experience visiting and witnessing Japans historical place.

This temple is located on a truly sacred mountain. There aren’t many souvenir shops, food stalls, or entertainment spots nearby, but that’s exactly what keeps its spiritual atmosphere pure. It may not suit those looking for fun or sightseeing, but the peacefulness and lack of crowds make it even more special. For Buddhists, it’s without a doubt one of Japan’s true sacred places.

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.

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.

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!

Visited in October’25. Super disappointed as the main building is fully under construction. The way to the temple is not the easiest, the entrance is not free, but the experience is not the best. The museum doesn’t give much information unless you do not only speak Japanese but also know the buddhism context very well. Wouldn’t recommend visiting unless they are done with the construction works. However the nature is amazing!

This temple was founded by Saicho, and I learned this religious sect called Tendaishu has strict disciple compared with other Buddhist temples. My mother's parental house believed True Pure Land sect called Jodo-Shinshu. At the memorial service of my grandma, Buddhist priest said to me trainee monks of Tendaishu can eat only one meal a day. But its vegetarian diet was so delicious and nutritious that it satisfied their bellies. By the way the Buddhist monk of our religious sect ate fish and meat to his heart content, even drank beer!! Their sect was not so strict and allowed them to do so. I am sure that each sect has each mind. Therefore if I became a nun, I would choose True Pure Land sect. Sorry, back to the main topic, Enryakuji temple is located in the Mt. Hiei, the border of Kyoto and Shiga. I have long been skeptical whether its address is in Shiga or in Kyoto. Correctly in Shiga. We can see the panorama of Kyoto city and Lake Biwa. It is inconvenient if you don't come here by car. If you come here to use public transportation, you may get on a cable car or bus. The easiest way to arrive here is to get on a bus at JR Kyoto station, Keihan Sanjyo or Demachiyanagi station. You need not change transportation. It is also a famous spot for hikers. However it seems to be dangerous if a young lady hikes the mountain alone. In the past some miserable accidents happened. It boasts vast ground with about 150 halls, where I couldn't see the whole temple in a day. In the battleship period there were more than 3000 temples. But do you know this temple was set fired by Nobunaga Oda, and Buddhist halls were burnt down to ashes? Terrible incident!! Later it was restored with the support of other warriors such as Hideyoshi Toyotomi or relatives of Tokugawa family. Now it was designated as world heritage. I enjoyed not only its scenic beauty but also historical valuables. Note: Every year night worshipping was held during summer season, but this year it is regrettably not held. The illuminated lit up in the mountain was a taste for summer and must for sightseers.