One of the most powerful institutions during the Heian Period, the monks of Enryaku-ji caused great problems for the emperors and court regularly threatening or invoking insurrection against them. Destroyed by the powerful warlord Oda Nobunaga in the 16th century, the complex and its many buildings were reconstructed during the Edo Period. Enryaku-ji is divided into the three areas with the eastern ‘Todo’ area being the focal point of the temple complex. Most of the temple’s main building is located in the Todo area with the ‘Saito’ and ‘Yokawa’ areas also boasting important structures.
Our tour of the Sacred Peaks of Mt. Hiezan, which includes a visit to Enryakuji Temple and Hiyoshi Taisha shrine is available to be booked now. Make the most of your time in Kyoto with this guided tour of these sacred and holy sites.
Given its setting on Mount Hieizan, the temple is accessible via the Eizan Cable Car / Ropeway or the Sakamoto Cable Car. The Eizan Cable Car / Ropeway operates from the western side of the mountain and takes 15 to 20 minutes / JPY900 one-way or JPY1800 for a roundtrip. It’s important to note, however, that the Eizan Cable Car / Ropeway does not operate from early-December to mid-March. Alternatively, the Sakamoto Cable Car operates from the eastern side of the mountain and can be used all-year-round. From the base station, the journey up takes 11 minutes and costs JPY870 one-way or JPY1660 for a round-trip.