7 must-see highlights of Mount Hiei’s Enryakuji Temple! A solemn tour of the grand temple that protects the capital of Kyoto

Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei in Ōtsu City, Shiga Prefecture, refers collectively to around 100 temple buildings within the vast grounds of Mount Hiei. It consists of three areas: the East Pagoda (Tōdō) in the eastern area, the West Pagoda (Saitō) in the western area, and Yokokawa in the northern area, each with its own main hall.

This time, we will introduce seven highlights of Enryakuji Temple, which is said to be so vast that it is difficult to cover in one day. Please refer to this guide when touring Enryakuji Temple.

[Enryakuji Tōdō] Konpon Chūdō

Konpon Chūdō is the largest and most central Buddhist hall of Enryakuji Temple and is designated a National Treasure. It serves as the head temple of Enryakuji. Enshrined here is the Medicine Buddha statue created by Saichō, and in front of the statue burns the "Eternal Dharma Light," which has never gone out.

In accordance with the teaching of "Butsubon Ichinyo" (the equality of Buddha and all beings), both the Medicine Buddha and the Eternal Dharma Light are placed at eye level with visitors.

◆ Major renovation of the National Treasure Konpon Chūdō (2016–planned through 2026)

A large-scale renovation of Konpon Chūdō has been underway since 2016 and is scheduled to continue until 2026. You can observe the renovation from the study stage, so don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the temple in its current state.

[Enryakuji Tōdō] Monjuro

Monjuro is located near the entrance of Enryakuji Temple and serves as the general gate for first-time worshippers. Painted in vermilion, Monjuro enshrines Monju Bosatsu (Manjushri Bodhisattva), known as the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, and is popular among students praying for academic success.

After passing through Monjuro, you will arrive at Konpon Chūdō.

[Enryakuji Tōdō] Daikōdō

Daikōdō is a place where monks listen to lectures and learn through dialogue. It was built in 1634 (Kan’ei 11) and was relocated from Sakamoto at the foot of the mountain in 1963 (Shōwa 38).

The building of Daikōdō is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The principal image enshrined in the Daikōdō is Dainichi Nyorai (Vairocana Buddha), and there are also many statues and portraits of famous monks who trained on Mount Hiei.

In the front garden of Daikōdō stands a large bell called the Bell of Peace (Bell of Good Fortune), which is a popular spot for tourists because anyone can ring it. However, please note that repeated ringing is prohibited. The fee is 50 yen per ring.

[Enryakuji Tōdō] Museum of National Treasures

The Museum of National Treasures is where cultural assets such as Buddhist statues and paintings handed down at Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei are preserved. As the name suggests, many of these are National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties designated by the Japanese government.

The permanent exhibition “Buddhist Art and Faith” features important cultural properties such as the 9th-century Standing Statue of Thousand-Armed Kannon, the 10th-century Standing Statues of Tamonten and Kōmokuten, and the 1256 Seated Statue of Jichie Daishi. Other exhibits are rotated regularly from the collection.

[Enryakuji Saitō] Shakadō (Tenporindō)

Shakadō (Tenporindō) is the main hall of the Saitō area and is considered a representative example of Tendai architecture.

The principal object of worship at Tenporindō is the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, said to have been created based on Saichō’s original vow. Tenporindō was burned down in 1571 (Genki 2) during Nobunaga’s attack on Mount Hiei, but Toyotomi Hideyoshi relocated the Kondō of Miidera (Onjōji Temple) to its current location.

[Enryakuji Saitō] Jōdoin

Jōdoin, located in the Saitō area, houses the mausoleum of Saichō, where his remains are enshrined since his passing in 822 (Kōnin 13). This place is considered a sacred area of Enryakuji Temple.

At Jōdoin, there are monks called “Jishin” who serve to guard Saichō’s mausoleum. They continue strict practices and serve as if Saichō were still alive. Only monks who are recognized as able to endure 12 years of training can become Jishin.

Mount Hiei Driveway

When touring Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei, using the Mount Hiei Driveway is also recommended. The Mount Hiei Driveway is a toll road connecting Tanotani Pass in Ōtsu City, Shiga Prefecture, to the summit of Mount Hiei.

You can enjoy a scenic drive with views of Lake Biwa and lush natural landscapes. Along the way, there are many facilities offering meals and experiential activities.

◆ Yumemigaoka

From the observatory at Yumemigaoka along the Mount Hiei Driveway, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Biwa. It is a spectacular spot visited by many for night views, the Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival, and the first sunrise of the year.

In addition, stylish European-style café terraces and barbecue corners are also popular attractions.

◆ Garden Museum Hiei

At Garden Museum Hiei, various seasonal flowers and herbs bloom throughout the garden. Paintings by famous artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh are recreated on ceramic boards and displayed, allowing visitors to feel as if they are in an art museum while surrounded by flowers outdoors.

◎ Summary of highlights of Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei

Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei is the head temple of the Tendai sect and is also registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. It features numerous temple halls and rare statues designated as National Treasures that can only be seen here. Although the grounds are vast, transportation such as the Mount Hiei Driveway, cable cars, and buses are well-equipped, making it an accessible tourist destination.

In addition to the well-known and easily accessible Tōdō area, be sure to also experience the solemn atmosphere of the Saitō and Yokokawa areas. Using the Mount Hiei Driveway makes it convenient to explore various surrounding tourist spots, making it ideal for trips with family and friends.

Information as of January 2024.