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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 44–62°F, 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 71–82°F, 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 55–78°F, 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 41–42°F, 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. 60.4°F / Annual rainfall: approx. 71 mm / Summer humidity: 60-75% / Rainiest month: June

Enryaku-ji monthly average temperature and precipitation

Month
Air temperature (°F)
Precipitation (mm)
January
40.3°F
2
February
43°F
5.6
March
44.2°F
6
April
59.2°F
6.1
May
62.4°F
8.7
June
70.9°F
12.7
July
80.4°F
7.7
August
82.6°F
9.2
September
79.2°F
2.6
October
67.1°F
6.1
November
54.9°F
4.1
December
41.9°F
0.3

Enryaku-ji weather for the next seven days

2/2
Monday
Patchy rain nearby
45.5°F/31.4°F
2/3
Tuesday
Patchy rain nearby
43.1°F/32.5°F
2/4
Wednesday
Partly Cloudy
47.5°F/31.3°F
2/5
Thursday
Partly Cloudy
49.2°F/34.3°F
2/6
Friday
Patchy rain nearby
50.7°F/36.4°F
2/7
Saturday
Patchy rain nearby
41.2°F/32.2°F
2/8
Sunday
Patchy moderate snow
32.6°F/29.3°F

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.