World Heritage Site Enryakuji & Sakamoto Cable Car Tour from Osaka
- Visit Mt. Hiei, beautifully covered in autumn foliage
- Ride a scenic cable car with panoramic views of Lake Biwa from a mountaintop spiritual power spot
- Enjoy a hotel lunch buffet with around 30 dishes, including roast beef
- Explore the famous power spot known for its iconic Senbon Torii gates
- After visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine, enjoy shopping along the approach path
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
Product Info
Purchase Notice
This tour is a Japanese tour. The tour conductor will provide language support using a translator (Pocket Talk).
This is not a private tour; you will enjoy the tour with other guests.
If the minimum number of participants (20) is not met by (14) days before the scheduled date, the tour on that date might be canceled.
Lunch will be served around 1:30 p.m.
Meals may change depending on ingredients.
If the Hiei Sakamoto Cable Car is suspended due to local circumstances or weather, the cable car fare will be refunded.
Please note that you may not be able to visit Enryaku-ji Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine due to religious ceremonies and festivals.
The tour will proceed regardless of the peak season for autumn leaves.
Reminders
Important Notes During Bus Tour
Please refrain from drinking alcohol on the bus.
Members of the odd-numbered group may need to share seats with other passengers on the bus.
As stipulated by Japanese law, please wear your seat belt on the tour bus.
Please remain seated and avoid walking while the tour bus is moving.
Seating on the bus is assigned by H.I.S staff. Please do not change your seat during the tour.
Please be punctual and arrive at the designated meeting place on time. The bus will depart on time and will not wait for latecomers.
Latecomers who wish to rejoin the group will be responsible for all transportation fees.
8.Please wear the sticker provided by the tour guide visibly.
Avoid sticking the sticker on leather goods, as it may leave marks.
Do not use the seat reclining function or adjust the seat settings.
Please set all electronic devices, including mobile phones and game consoles, to silent mode.
Talking on mobile phones and making video calls are prohibited on the tour bus.
Smoking is strictly prohibited on the tour bus.
Arrival times at each sightseeing spot may vary depending on traffic conditions.
The use of drones for filming or other purposes is prohibited during the tour.
Please do not use perfume, sprays, or change baby diapers on the bus, as it may disturb other passengers.
Manage your valuable belongings yourself.
After the tour, please take all your trash with you and do not leave any on the bus.
Ensure you do not forget or leave any personal belongings on the bus after the tour.
For fruit-picking tours, please note that fruit is to be consumed only on the farm. Bringing it home in your own bag is strictly prohibited.
If you fail to follow these regulations and cause a disturbance on the bus, you may be asked to leave the bus, even during the tour.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 11 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 8 to 10 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 20% will apply
- For cancellations made 2 to 7 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 30% will apply
- For cancellations made 1 to 1 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 40% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
Enryakuji Temple, founded by Saicho in 788 AD, is the head temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism. Located on Mount Hiei, it played a pivotal role in the development of Japanese Buddhism, producing many influential monks who went on to establish other major Buddhist schools. Its long history is marked by significant cultural and political influence, earning it a reputation as a spiritual and intellectual center.
Enryakuji Temple was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the 'Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto'. Its recognition stems from its profound historical significance as a major center for Buddhist learning and practice, its unique architectural styles, and its enduring influence on Japanese culture, religion, and thought for over a millennium. It stands as a testament to the spiritual heritage of Japan.
The most convenient and scenic way to ascend Mount Hiei to reach Enryakuji Temple is by taking the Sakamoto Cable Car. This cable car, known as Japan's longest, offers a comfortable ride up the mountain, providing breathtaking views during the ascent. Once at the top, the various temple complexes of Enryakuji are easily accessible.
Visitors riding the Sakamoto Cable Car can expect a scenic and relaxing journey up Mount Hiei. The cable car provides panoramic views of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, along with the lush surrounding landscape. The ride itself is a highlight, offering picturesque vistas that change with the seasons, making it a memorable part of the visit.
The vast Enryakuji Temple complex is divided into three main areas: Todo (East Tower), Saito (West Tower), and Yokawa. Must-see highlights include the Konpon Chudo Hall in Todo, which houses a perpetually burning lamp, and the Kaidan-in, a significant ordination hall. The serene atmosphere, ancient buildings, and tranquil forest paths offer a profound spiritual experience.
The Senbon Torii (Thousand Torii Gates) at Fushimi Inari Taisha are iconic, forming a striking path up the mountain. Each gate is a donation by an individual or company as a prayer for good fortune or as thanks for wishes granted. This tradition highlights the deep connection between the deity Inari (god of rice and sake) and business prosperity, creating a spiritually rich and visually impressive experience.
Given the expansive nature of Enryakuji Temple and Mount Hiei, visitors should allocate a substantial amount of time for exploration. To fully appreciate the three main areas of the temple complex and enjoy the cable car ride, a half to full day is recommended. This allows for ample time to walk between halls, soak in the historical atmosphere, and enjoy the scenic views without rush.
During a visit to Mount Hiei and Enryakuji, a delightful hotel lunch buffet is typically offered. This buffet features a diverse selection of approximately 30 dishes, catering to various tastes. A notable highlight often included is delicious roast beef, providing a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience amidst the spiritual and natural beauty of the area.
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