① Visiting Mt. Hiei Enryaku-ji Temple Wrapped in Autumn Colors
The autumn foliage on Mt. Hiei, at an elevation of approximately 850 meters, arrives early, with the trees beginning to turn color from the summit in late October each year, painting the entire mountain in autumn hues like waves of brocade.
In the Yokawa area, the inner sanctuary of Yokawa Chūdō, normally closed to the public, is specially opened, allowing visitors to view the principal image, the Standing Statue of Shō Kannon Bosatsu (Important Cultural Property), up close. Timed with the peak foliage season, the "Hiei Maple Festival" is held at a special venue in the Yokawa parking area.
In the Tōdō area, visitors can observe the once-in-60-years major renovation of Konpon Chūdō from the study stage, offering a rare close-up view of behind-the-scenes work and vividly colored decorations not normally visible. This study stage viewing is scheduled to continue until the end of November 2026, making it a precious sight that will never be seen again after the renovation is complete.
Mount Hiei Enryaku-ji Temple
- Business Hours
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[Tōdō Area]
9:00 AM–4:00 PM
[Saitō and Yokawa Areas]
December–February: 9:30 AM–4:00 PM
March–November: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM - Admission
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Adults: 1,000 yen (Groups of 20+: 800 yen) *Three-pagoda combined ticket
- URL
