Mount Hiei
The best of Mount Hiei
Bucket-list experiences
Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden LIGHT CYCLES KYOTO Admission Ticket
Kyoto Arashiyama & Sagano Train (Optional) & Sanzen-in Temple Day Tour | Depart from Osaka/Kyoto
Kimono rental experience (Kyoto/Kyoto Kimono Rei Gion Store)
Eizan Tram & Mountain Cable Car Round-trip Ticket
2024 NAKED Garden of Light Heian Shrine
Matcha Ceremony Experience in Kyoto
Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple Admission Ticket in Shiga
Kendo and Samurai Experience with Uniform and Gear in Kyoto
Ninja Weapon Making Class at a Historic Mansion in Kyoto
Kyoto: Authentic Knife-Making Experience at a Blacksmith Shop
Kyoto: Tea Ceremony in a Japanese Painter's Garden
Make it a getaway
Biwako Ryokusuitei
Ohara no Sato
Minn Gion Sanjo
Rinn Shirakawa South
The Westin Miyako Kyoto
THE HOTEL HIGASHIYAMA by Kyoto Tokyu Hotel
Ryokan KANADE
Hotel Wing International Premium Kyoto Sanjo
M’s Hotel Sanjo Wakoku
Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan
Rinn Niomon
The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
All that's good & tasty
Nanzenji Junsei Traditional Tofu Kaiseki Cuisine - Kyoto
Kichisen in Kyoto Gion - Michelin Three Starred Kaiseki Restaurant
Ten You (てんゆう) Michelin 1-Starred Tempura in Kyoto
Minokichi Honten Takeshigerou (美濃吉本店 竹茂楼) in Kyoto Higashiyama - Japanese Traditional Kaiseki
Michelin Starred Kaiseki Mizuki at Ritz Carlton Kyoto
Tempura Endo Okazaki Residence - Tempura in Kyoto
【Michelin One Star Kaiseki Cuisine】Shimogamosaro - Shimogamo Saryo - Kyoto Main Store
One-Michelin star Toku (Kaiseki, Washoku) in Kyoto
More to explore
Eizan Railway Ee Kippu 1-Day Pass
Kyoto Hop-On Hop-off sightseeing bus by Skyhop Bus (1day / 2days ticket)
2024-25 season Biwako Valley Ski Day Tour (Shiga / Osaka departure)
Why people love Mount Hiei
Nearby places to go
FAQs about Mount Hiei
Is Mount Hiei worth visiting?
Why is Mount Hiei important?
What is the folklore of Mount Hiei?
What to know before visiting Mount Hiei
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.