Mount Hiei

★ 4.5 (22K+ reviews) • 15K+ booked
Overview
Things to do
Restaurants
Hotels

Mount Hiei Tickets & Tours

Kyoto Romantic Day Trip: Kifune Shrine & Eizan Railway
Tours • From Osaka

Kyoto Romantic Day Trip: Kifune Shrine & Eizan Railway

Book now for tomorrow
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
New Activity
¥ 8,750
Save ¥ 3,750
Miho Museum & Old Chikurin-in & Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine on Mount Hiei & Lake Biwa-Shirahige Shrine One-Day Tour (Osaka/Kyoto pick-up and drop-off available)
Tours • From Osaka

Miho Museum & Old Chikurin-in & Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine on Mount Hiei & Lake Biwa-Shirahige Shrine One-Day Tour (Osaka/Kyoto pick-up and drop-off available)

Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Free cancellation
4.9 / 5
(14) • 100+ booked
¥ 10,125
Shiga: Lake Biwa Shirahige Shrine & Miho Museum & Former Chikurin-in Temple Day Trip | Departing from Osaka/Kyoto
Tours • From Osaka, Kyoto

Shiga: Lake Biwa Shirahige Shrine & Miho Museum & Former Chikurin-in Temple Day Trip | Departing from Osaka/Kyoto

Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Free cancellation
4.3 / 5
(316) • 4K+ booked
¥ 10,000
Shiga Lake Biwa Day Trip | Lake Biwa Observation Deck / Kyoto Sanzen-in Temple & Shirahige Shrine & La Collina Omihachiman
Tours • From Kyoto, Osaka

Shiga Lake Biwa Day Trip | Lake Biwa Observation Deck / Kyoto Sanzen-in Temple & Shirahige Shrine & La Collina Omihachiman

Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Free cancellation
4.6 / 5
(5)
¥ 8,000
Lake Biwa in Four Seasons & La Collina Omihachiman & Nara Day Trip
Tours • From Osaka

Lake Biwa in Four Seasons & La Collina Omihachiman & Nara Day Trip

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
¥ 16,380
Lake Biwa in Four Seasons, La Collina Omihachiman, and a Day Trip to Nara (from Osaka)
Tours • From Osaka

Lake Biwa in Four Seasons, La Collina Omihachiman, and a Day Trip to Nara (from Osaka)

Book now for tomorrow
English guided
Free cancellation
¥ 22,750
Original Japanese Chopstick Making Experience in Kyoto Gion (CHOPSTICKS LAB MISAKI)
Cultural experiences • Kyoto

Original Japanese Chopstick Making Experience in Kyoto Gion (CHOPSTICKS LAB MISAKI)

Book now for today
English guided
Up to 3 hrs
4.9 / 5
(21) • New Activity
¥ 1,000
Zen and Ghibli Exhibition Ticket at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art
Museums • Kyoto

Zen and Ghibli Exhibition Ticket at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art

Book now for tomorrow
Instant confirmation
New Activity
¥ 1,900
Kyoto: Sumo Experience (with Live Show & Audience Challenge)
Cultural experiences • Kyoto

Kyoto: Sumo Experience (with Live Show & Audience Challenge)

Book now for today
English guided
Afternoon departure
4.9 / 5
(846) • New Activity
¥ 5,000
Save ¥ 5,000
Garden Museum Hiei
Museums • Kyoto

Garden Museum Hiei

Book now for tomorrow
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
50+ booked
From
¥ 600
Kyoto: Authentic Knife-Making Experience at a Blacksmith Shop
Cultural experiences • Kyoto

Kyoto: Authentic Knife-Making Experience at a Blacksmith Shop

Book now for today
English guided
Morning departure
4.9 / 5
(136) • 3K+ booked
¥ 23,000
Kyoto: Sumo Show with Photo & Experience
Cultural experiences • Kyoto

Kyoto: Sumo Show with Photo & Experience

Book now for today
English guided
Afternoon departure
5.0 / 5
(35) • New Activity
¥ 5,000

Where to stay in Mount Hiei

SOLARIA Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier
Hotels • Kyoto

SOLARIA Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(1.0K) • 50+ booked
From
¥ 17,101
The Screen
Hotels • Kyoto

The Screen

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(431)
From
¥ 12,688
Yumotokan
Hotels • Otsu

Yumotokan

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(806)
From
¥ 35,891
Ryokan KANADE
Hotels • Kyoto

Ryokan KANADE

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(264)
From
¥ 20,173
¥ 20,614
ATO Hotel Kyoto
Hotels • Kyoto

ATO Hotel Kyoto

Instant confirmation
3.4 / 5
(82)
From
¥ 5,212
Ryokan Sawaya Honten
Hotels • Kyoto

Ryokan Sawaya Honten

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(545)
From
¥ 19,127
THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO TOKYU, A Pan Pacific Hotel
Hotels • Kyoto

THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO TOKYU, A Pan Pacific Hotel

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(548)
From
¥ 16,021
Ohara no Sato
Hotels • Kyoto

Ohara no Sato

Instant confirmation
4.2 / 5
(262)
From
¥ 21,257
Rinn Sanjo Ohashi East
Hotels • Kyoto

Rinn Sanjo Ohashi East

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(8)
From
¥ 7,095
¥ 7,165
Kyoto Ohara Ryokan Seryo
Hotels • Kyoto

Kyoto Ohara Ryokan Seryo

Instant confirmation
4.8 / 5
(137)
From
¥ 63,674
¥ 66,213
KOKO HOTEL Kyoto Sanjo
Hotels • Kyoto

KOKO HOTEL Kyoto Sanjo

Instant confirmation
4.7 / 5
(647)
From
¥ 7,808
Gion Crystal Hotel
Hotels • Kyoto

Gion Crystal Hotel

Instant confirmation
From
¥ 13,416

Restaurants near Mount Hiei

Nanzenji Junsei Traditional Tofu Kaiseki Cuisine - Kyoto
Food & dining • Kyoto

Nanzenji Junsei Traditional Tofu Kaiseki Cuisine - Kyoto

Book now for today
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
4.5 / 5
(264) • 9K+ booked
¥ 3,989
Yamabana Heihachidiya in Kyoto - Centuries old Japanese Traditional Kaiseki
Food & dining • Kyoto

Yamabana Heihachidiya in Kyoto - Centuries old Japanese Traditional Kaiseki

Free cancellation
4.8 / 5
(21) • 900+ booked
¥ 5,600
Kichisen in Kyoto Gion - Michelin Three Starred Kaiseki Restaurant
Food & dining • Kyoto

Kichisen in Kyoto Gion - Michelin Three Starred Kaiseki Restaurant

Set menu
24-hour confirmation
4.4 / 5
(15) • 1K+ booked
¥ 22,800
【Michelin One-Star Kaiseki Cuisine】Shimogamosaro - Shimogamo Saryo (Kyoto Main Store)
Food & dining • Kyoto

【Michelin One-Star Kaiseki Cuisine】Shimogamosaro - Shimogamo Saryo (Kyoto Main Store)

Book now for today
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
¥ 15,730
One-Michelin star Toku (Kaiseki, Washoku) in Kyoto
Food & dining • Kyoto

One-Michelin star Toku (Kaiseki, Washoku) in Kyoto

Free cancellation
¥ 27,475
Michelin Starred Kaiseki Mizuki  at Ritz Carlton Kyoto
Food & dining • Kyoto

Michelin Starred Kaiseki Mizuki at Ritz Carlton Kyoto

Free cancellation
100+ booked
¥ 20,900
Tempura Endo Okazaki Residence - Tempura in Kyoto
Food & dining • Kyoto

Tempura Endo Okazaki Residence - Tempura in Kyoto

Free cancellation
50+ booked
¥ 8,693
Retail: ¥ 9,000
【Michelin Star French Cuisine】Kyoto Dominique Bouchet Kyoto Le RESTAURANT
Food & dining • Kyoto

【Michelin Star French Cuisine】Kyoto Dominique Bouchet Kyoto Le RESTAURANT

Book now for today
Free cancellation
¥ 35,200
KangaAN - Fucha Cooking in Kyoto
Food & dining • Kyoto

KangaAN - Fucha Cooking in Kyoto

Free cancellation
¥ 9,294
Dominique Bouchet Kyoto Le Teppanyaki - Teppanyaki in Kyoto, Higashiyama
¥ 36,588

More to explore

Hieizan Free Pass (Unlimited 1-Day Rides on 6 Types of Transport)
Rail passes • Kyoto

Hieizan Free Pass (Unlimited 1-Day Rides on 6 Types of Transport)

Book now for tomorrow
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
New Activity
¥ 3,500
Eizan Electric Railway 1-Day Pass “Ee Kippu” & Kurama Onsen Set Ticket
Train tickets • Kyoto

Eizan Electric Railway 1-Day Pass “Ee Kippu” & Kurama Onsen Set Ticket

Book now for tomorrow
Instant confirmation
4.3 / 5
(7) • 100+ booked
From
¥ 2,550

Mount Hiei Reviews

Klook用戶
2026-07-24 11:14:20
Fantastic 5.0
Nick introduced the attractions and Japanese culture during the car ride. The trip went smoothly, and although the weather in July was very hot, the Miho Museum was still well worth visiting. It offers different scenery in different seasons and is truly an ideal paradise!
Klook User
2026-04-16 07:13:03
Fantastic 5.0
I've always dreamed of visiting the Miho Museum, but the inconvenient transportation always deterred me. When I stumbled upon this tour, which allowed me to visit several desired locations at once, I immediately signed up! I was incredibly lucky to catch a beautiful sunny day on April 16th, and the cherry blossoms at the museum hadn't completely fallen yet. Seeing the interplay of light and shadow on the architecture amidst the spring scenery was like a dream. I especially want to commend our guide, Sen. He was energetic and enthusiastic, providing detailed explanations in both Chinese and English, making the entire trip incredibly enjoyable. I highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants to visit Miho but is worried about the hassle!
Klook客路用户
2026-09-22 21:28:24
Fantastic 5.0
Today, due to the holiday, there were heavy crowds and severe traffic congestion. Fortunately, the weather was clear and the scenic beauty far exceeded our expectations. Our tour guide, Yafei, gave us detailed introductions on the bus in advance regarding the cultural history, local cuisine, and great photo spots for each attraction, which was extremely helpful. Despite the heavy traffic, the guide continuously communicated with the driver to estimate our arrival time and constantly kept us updated on the estimated arrival times and duration of our visits, allowing us to adjust our expectations accordingly. She was very dedicated and responsible. As for the scenery, Lake Biwa is truly stunning with its sparkling waters. Exploring, checking in, and taking photos on the mountain yielded amazing pictures. We experienced both the cable car and the Sky Bridge; the scenery on the mountain was pleasant and expansive, and we had a wonderful time. The only thing to note is that it is windy at the top of the mountain, so it is best to wear a windbreaker and long pants to avoid getting cold. Due to the traffic jams, we only had half an hour to explore and shop at our last stop, La Collina Omihachiman. The tour guide efficiently led us quickly to the cake factory at the very back, allowing us to catch the core scenery just before sunset. The experience was still quite good overall. Generally speaking, thanks to the clear weather and comfortable temperatures, this trip greatly exceeded expectations. The only minor drawback was the traffic, which compressed the time available at each attraction, making it feel a bit like a rushed "special forces" style tour, and the return trip was a bit late. However, overall we had a thoroughly enjoyable and comfortable time. Special thanks to our dedicated tour guide Yafei, and to the experienced and smooth driver who warmly greeted each of us when getting on and off the bus and helped us with our luggage!
Myah **************
2026-10-01 06:24:41
Fantastic 5.0
THIS WAS FANTASTIC! Not only was it affordable but it was funny, taught us so much and allowed my husband to step back into the ring even for a few seconds! An amazing time and I will definitely be recommending this experience to my clients and followers!
Klook User
2026-10-09 11:14:32
Fantastic 5.0
we really enjoyed the show and learning about sumo. the host was great and the wrestlers put on an amazing show. comfy cushions on seats and good selection of drinks available.
Klook User
2026-10-05 03:57:13
Fantastic 5.0
My husband and I had a great experience! Dong was a great teacher and made our experience seamless and fun from start to finish. We will be recommending this experience to our friends visiting Kyoto in the future. Thank you Dong! :)
Klook 用戶
2026-07-01 11:54:42
Fantastic 5.0
If you're planning a leisurely trip to Kyoto, one that isn't rushed and allows you to deeply experience the beauty of Kyoto's mountains, forests, and ancient temples, I truly highly recommend this tour! 🌿 I especially want to give a strong recommendation to our tour guide, Wang Zhaoyu! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you only speak Chinese, there's absolutely no need to worry. Mr. Wang speaks fluent Chinese, and his professionalism was evident even the day before the tour. I couldn't find the meeting point the day before, so I called the guide on a whim, and to my surprise, he not only answered immediately but also patiently helped me step-by-step. This level of service alone deserves a five-star rating! Throughout the entire trip, Mr. Wang's explanations were clear, and he was very friendly and approachable. His driving skills were also incredibly impressive; despite being very prone to motion sickness, I didn't feel sick at all. His driving was smooth and comfortable, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. The itinerary was also excellent, perfect as an introductory tour for these attractions. It not only helps you quickly understand the characteristics of each site but also helps you identify which places best suit your preferences. If you find a particular spot you love, it will give you better direction for a more in-depth, self-guided exploration next time. For a day trip, the pace of this itinerary is very comfortable, suitable for those who prefer a slower pace. Each attraction allowed ample time to linger and experience the charming blend of Kyoto's mountains, ancient temples, and streams. It's a route I highly recommend. 🍃 Nanzen-ji Temple boasts a solemn and ancient temple atmosphere, complemented by the famous Suirokaku aqueduct, where history and nature blend perfectly, offering different charms in every season. Eikan-do Temple is renowned for its autumn foliage, and although it wasn't maple leaf season during our visit, the serene and elegant garden still had a unique charm; each has its own beauty. 🍃 Sanzen-in Temple is filled with a strong sense of Zen, with its tranquil and healing moss garden. Strolling through it instantly calms the mind. We were also fortunate to encounter an exhibition by artist Kumiko Minami (on its last day), which added an unexpected surprise to the trip. 🚃 Although the Eizan Electric Railway (between Hieizan-guchi Station and Kurama Station) doesn't offer the spectacular autumn maple leaf tunnel, the summer mountains are lush green, and the scenery along the way is fresh and therapeutic, showcasing another vibrant side of Kyoto. ⛩️ The most unforgettable aspect of Kifune Shrine is the neatly arranged red lanterns lining both sides of the approach, which look especially dreamy against the green backdrop. Although we didn't experience kawadoko (riverside dining) this time, seeing the kawadoko structures built along the stream gave us a deep appreciation for Kyoto's unique summer charm. Overall, this was a comfortable and stress-free in-depth trip to Kyoto. There was no constant rushing; instead, we truly had the opportunity to slow down and appreciate the beauty created by the intertwining mountains, ancient temples, and streams. If you're still wondering whether to join, I genuinely recommend choosing Tour Guide Wang Zhaoyu. He is professional, friendly, meticulous, and reliable, and he will undoubtedly make your Kyoto trip even more enjoyable! ❤️
light ********
2026-05-14 19:52:01
Fantastic 5.0
Absolutely loved this kimono rental experience 🫶 The kimonos were so pretty with so many beautiful designs to choose from, and the makeup was soft, elegant, and done so nicely ✨ The staff were incredibly kind and helpful throughout the whole process, which made everything feel comfortable and special. I truly felt so pretty and confident walking around Kyoto in my kimono 💕 Highly recommend!
Albert ****
2026-06-15 04:39:36
Fantastic 5.0
Need a kitchen knife? Make your own. This is it! As a family of 5, it was well worth it to learn an aspect of culture and have your kids participate. This business in particular, is tailored to your group so there is no large corporate awkwardness. As a small business they are able assist you one on one, as necessary. Learn to make a knife: heating, pounding to shape, grinding and sharpening; all in one. I'm from the US and have toured a lot if places.....this one is fun, enjoyable, and most everyone can get something out of this experience.

Popular places near Mount Hiei

829K+ visitors
479K+ visitors
388K+ visitors
31K+ visitors
368K+ visitors
478K+ visitors
656K+ visitors
547K+ visitors
994K+ visitors
185K+ visitors
778K+ visitors
748K+ visitors
20K+ visitors
65K+ visitors
406K+ visitors
370K+ visitors
489K+ visitors

FAQs about Mount Hiei

Is Mount Hiei worth visiting?

Why is Mount Hiei important?

What is the folklore of Mount Hiei?

What to know about 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. Follow the Kyoto Isshu Trail to go up the mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to unwind with nature.

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.