Mount Hiei: Everything You Need Before Visiting

Overview

Things to do

Hotels

Restaurants

4.9 /5

11K+ reviews

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楊 **

10 Mar

The entire itinerary was excellent, and we're very grateful for our guide Xiao Liu's dedication and kindness. The detailed explanations of Sanzen-in Temple, Lake Biwa, and the Baumkuchen factory made the experience even more engaging.

WANG ********

7 Mar

The Eizan Electric Railway one-day pass is very convenient. You can visit Kibune and then Kurama all in one trip, and it's great because you can freely hop on and off at any stops in between to explore attractions. After hiking, soaking in a hot spring is truly relaxing.

Klook User

7 Mar

Easy to travel, beautiful place, and it just feel good. 👍

JClaire ******

6 Mar

This has been an informative tour. Thanks to Liu for sharing the knowledge. The temple is so serene, makes me wanna live there 😁 The cakes at Baum factory are scrumptious 💯

Klook User

4 Mar

Absolutely amazing! Really fun hands-on experience to create a meaningful souvenir (and feel like a ninja for a few hours).

黄 **

27 Feb

Since it was lunch, and the actual price per person was 500rmb+ (not including the reservation fee included with Klook), the ingredients used in the dishes were average (for example, the ingredients for the bowl were duck meatballs). What I liked most about this visit was the girl who greeted us. She was lively, cheerful, and a bit shy. When you encountered something you didn't understand, she would actively use a mobile phone translator to look it up and explain it. Her hands were frozen red from being in contact with cold water too much, but she maintained her posture and etiquette in front of the guests throughout. Really, you basically can't see such a lovely girl in mainland China. I'll come again next time for her! I recommend tourists eat Kaiseki at noon, firstly because it will be much more expensive at night and you may encounter noisy guests who are drinking and having fun, secondly because eating too much at night is not easy to digest, and thirdly because you can't see the courtyard scenery clearly at night when it's dark. Behind the tea house is the Takano River, and the gurgling water is very pleasant. After the meal, the female owner waited in the doorway, and after seeing us to the door, she waited in the cold wind until we got on the bus and bowed goodbye. This dedication to every table of guests is truly an epitome of the Japanese Kaiseki experience.

Lau ******

24 Feb

Point-to-point transfers are very convenient. Lake Biwa in winter is covered in snow, which is very beautiful. There are play facilities for children, and you can also ski. I recommend booking ski equipment online in advance to save time.

Lau ******

24 Feb

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Is Mount Hiei worth visiting?

Why is Mount Hiei important?

What is the folklore of Mount Hiei?

Mount Hiei is a sacred mountain to the northeast of Kyoto, right on the border of Kyoto and Shiga prefectures. You'll find the Enryaku-ji Temple grounds here, a UNESCO World Heritage, group of temples and buildings that have played a huge role in Japanese Buddhism and culture over the years. More than its stunning views of Kyoto, the temple is also famous for its "marathon monks," who take on the incredible 1,000-day challenge called "kaihogyo" in their quest for enlightenment. Nowadays, people come to Mount Hiei to check out its religious spots, take in nature, and catch some amazing views.

Mount Hiei, Ichijoji Idegadanichosenguchi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-0000, Japan

Must-Visit Attractions in Mount Hiei

Enryaku-ji Temple

Enryaku-ji or Enryakuji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the main temple of the legendary warrior monk Benkei. Uncover the deep history and cultural importance of this iconic temple on Mount Hiei. Back in its prime, Enryakuji had around 3,000 sub-temples and housed thousands of monks.

Hiking Trails

Go on a hiking adventure through the forests of Mount Hiei. Take the Kyoto Isshu Trail to go up the mountain, offering breathtaking views and a chance to relax in nature. While exploring this journey, consider visiting Ginkakuji in nearby Kyoto, known as the Silver Pavilion, where you can walk through beautiful Zen gardens and admire traditional architecture.

Sakamoto Cable Car

Experience a scenic ride on the Sakamoto Cable Car, where you can enjoy panoramic views as you go down from Mount Hiei to Otsu City in Shiga prefecture. Enjoy a convenient and picturesque journey back to Kyoto.

Garden Museum Hiei

Located on a mountaintop with stunning views of Kyoto and Lake Biwa, this garden art museum is a must-visit. Explore six beautiful gardens inspired by Provence, France, including an aromatic garden, a rose garden, a lily pond, and a flower garden, that can remind you of Monet's home. With 100,000 flowers blooming year-round, you're in for a visual treat. Plus, see the museum's highlight: ceramic tile replicas of 12 famous impressionist paintings by artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.

Tips for Your Mount Hiei Visit

When is the best time to visit Mount Hiei?

Plan your visit to Mount Hiei during the spring or autumn seasons to enjoy pleasant weather and stunning natural scenery. Avoid the summer crowds and winter chill for a more peaceful experience.

How to go to Mount Hiei?

Reach Mount Hiei by toll road for hikers or take the Eizan Cable Car or Sakamoto Cable Car for a scenic journey to the top. Regular buses connect the attractions on the mountain, providing convenient transportation for visitors. Alternatively, you can take the train from JR Kyoto Station.

How long is the hike up Mount Hiei?

It takes an 11.1-mile round-trip trail to Mount Hiei near Kyoto. Known for its challenging terrain, it typically takes around 6 hours and 4 minutes to finish. Perfect for hiking, running, and leisurely walks, you'll enjoy a peaceful journey with minimal crowds along the way.

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