Mt. Hiei is a profoundly significant site in Japanese Buddhism, serving as the birthplace of the Tendai sect and home to the sprawling Enryakuji Temple complex. This sacred mountain is particularly famous for its 'Marathon Monks' (Gyoja), who undertake an incredibly arduous seven-year pilgrimage known as the Sennichi-Kaiho-Gyo, involving thousands of kilometers of running and a seven-day sleepless fast. The mountain offers a unique opportunity to delve into Japan's spiritual heritage amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Visitors consistently praise the serene atmosphere and the beautiful views from the mountain, especially those overlooking Lake Biwa and Kyoto. Many reviewers highlight the historical depth of the temple grounds, appreciating the opportunity to walk through ancient forests and explore various temple halls. The cable car and ropeway rides are often mentioned as enjoyable parts of the experience, providing scenic ascents. Some visitors note the extensive walking required between the different temple areas, suggesting comfortable footwear is essential.
To make the most of your visit, allocate at least half a day, or even a full day if you wish to explore all three main areas of Enryakuji (Todo, Saito, and Yokawa). Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the paths can be uneven and there's a considerable amount of walking involved. Bringing water and snacks is advisable, especially outside of peak season when some shops might be closed. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and beautiful foliage, though the mountain offers a different charm in every season. Arriving earlier in the day can help avoid larger crowds, particularly at the cable car stations.
Reaching Mt. Hiei is straightforward using public transport. From Kyoto, take the Keihan Main Line to Demachiyanagi, then transfer to an Eizan train to Yase-Hieizan-guchi. From there, the Eizan Cable Car takes you up the mountain. Alternatively, from the Lake Biwa side, take the JR Kosei line or Keihan Ishiyama-Sakamoto line to Sakamoto. The Hiyoshi Taisha shrine and the Sakamoto Cable Car station are about a 15-minute walk from the Keihan Sakamoto station, and are well-signposted. The cable car and ropeway operate frequently, typically every 10-30 minutes, with schedules varying slightly by season.
A common complaint among visitors is the sheer size of the Enryakuji complex, which can be overwhelming if not planned properly. To mitigate this, consider focusing on one or two main areas if time is limited, or utilize the shuttle bus service that connects the different temple zones on the mountain. Some find the entry fees for various temple buildings to add up, so it's wise to budget accordingly or prioritize which specific halls you wish to enter.
