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Enryaku-ji

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Enryaku-ji Weather, Climate and Best Time to Visit

Data source：Meteostat
Update date：2025-10

Enryaku-ji year round climate

  • Spring (March–May): Average 7–17°C, the weather gradually warms up, dry and comfortable. New greenery emerges in the mountains, making it a good time for temple visits and hiking. Common activities: Temple visits, mountain hiking, enjoying the fresh greenery. Recommended attire: Layered clothing (onion-style), light jacket, long-sleeved shirt, light sweater.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 22–28°C, warm to hot. June is a relatively rainy month, but overall it remains rather dry. Mountain temperatures may be cooler than in the lowlands. Common activities: Escaping the heat, morning or evening strolls, indoor Buddhist experiences. Recommended attire: Short-sleeved shirts, light long pants/skirts, sun hat, sun protection.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 13–26°C, the weather is pleasant, cool and dry, with clear skies. It is the best season for viewing autumn leaves, with beautiful scenery. Common activities: Autumn leaf viewing, mountain hiking, photography. Recommended attire: Light jacket, sweater, long-sleeved top.
  • Winter (December–February): Average 5–6°C, cold and dry. Light snowfall may occur in the mountains; keep warm. Common activities: Experiencing snow-covered Buddhist temples, hot springs, winter hiking. Recommended attire: Warm coat, down jacket, scarf, gloves, wool hat.

Enryaku-ji climatological average

Annual average temperature: approx. 15.8°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 71 mm / Summer humidity: 60-75% / Rainiest month: June

Enryaku-ji monthly average temperature and precipitation

Month
Air temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
January
4.6°C
2
February
6.1°C
5.6
March
6.8°C
6
April
15.1°C
6.1
May
16.9°C
8.7
June
21.6°C
12.7
July
26.9°C
7.7
August
28.1°C
9.2
September
26.2°C
2.6
October
19.5°C
6.1
November
12.7°C
4.1
December
5.5°C
0.3

Enryaku-ji weather for the next seven days

12/18
Thursday
Sunny
10.3°C/5.1°C
12/19
Friday
Sunny
13.6°C/3.4°C
12/20
Saturday
Patchy rain nearby
13.1°C/7.7°C
12/21
Sunday
Patchy rain nearby
17.7°C/10.9°C
12/22
Monday
Patchy rain nearby
11.1°C/9.7°C
12/23
Tuesday
Patchy rain nearby
10.5°C/9.4°C
12/24
Wednesday
Partly Cloudy
12°C/8.4°C

Enryaku-ji Frequently Asked Questions and Useful Information for Travel

What is the history of Enryaku-ji?

Enryaku-ji was founded in 788 by Saicho, the monk who introduced Tendai Buddhism from China. At its peak, Enryaku-ji had as many as 3000 subtemples and a powerful army of warrior monks who often engaged in power struggles with other monasteries and political leaders in ji.

How do you get to Enryaku-ji Temple?

If travelling from Tokyo, Osaka or Nagoya, then take the Shinkansen to JR Kyoto Station. From there, take the Hieizan Drive Bus to the Enryaku-ji Bus Center. The ride is 70 minutes and the service does not operate from early December to late March. Visitors can also take a train from JR Kyoto Station to the foot of Mt. Hiei in ji.

Is Mount Hiei worth visiting?

Mount Hiei in ji is a must-visit on your Japan trip! Enjoy breathtaking views of Kyoto and see its legendary "marathon monks," who take on the incredible 1,000-day challenge known as "kaihogyo" in their pursuit of enlightenment at Enryaku-ji.

What is Enryaku-ji known for?

Enryaku-ji is renowned as the head temple of the Tendai school of Japanese Buddhism. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site located on Mount Hiei in ji and is celebrated for its profound spiritual significance and historical importance.

What are the main attractions at Enryaku-ji?

The main attractions at Enryaku-ji in ji include the historic Konpon-chudo (main hall), the vast temple complex spread across Mount Hiei, and the opportunity to witness the spiritual practices of its monks. The scenic beauty and panoramic views of Kyoto from the mountain are also significant draws.