About the facility
Enryakuji is the head temple of the sect of Tendai Buddhism, standing on the entire 848-meter-high Mt. Hiei located in Sakamoto Honmachi, Otsu, Shiga. It belongs to Mt. Hiei and is dedicated to the deity Yakushi Nyorai (Bhaiṣajyaguru).
It is the head temple of Japan's Tendai Buddhism, which was established by a priest named Saicho from the Heian Era.
From the Heian Era to the Kamakura Era, the temple spawned the founders of Buddhist sects that represent Japan, such as Ryonin, Ippen, Honen, Eisai, Shinran, Dogen, and Nichiren, which is why it is called the mother mountain of Japan's Buddhism.
Special offers of KANSAI RAILWAY PASS
Group fare discount
Access
- Closest stations
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Kyoto Municipal Subway Kyoto Station → (Keihan Bus) → Enryakuji Bus Center 790 yen
Bus fare separately required.
Map and information
Recommended places to visit in SHIGA
Areas you can travel to with KANSAI RAILWAY PASS
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OSAKA
The most popular area in Kansai,
with many vibrant spots. -
KYOTO
Kyoto is the place to visit if you want to enjoy traditional Japan.
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NARA
This is an area with many historic temples and shrines, as well as lots of nature.
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KOBE/HIMEJI
Kobe is a town surrounded by the ocean and mountains, while Himeji boasts Himeji Castle, a world heritage site.
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WAKAYAMA
It is renowned for world-heritage Koyasan.
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SHIGA
Visit Hieizan Enryakuji temple and Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan.