This tour offers a comprehensive experience along Kyoto’s scenic Eizan Railway line. Here’s how to make the most of your day with the included Eizan Railway One-Day Pass, which lets you explore historic temples and beautiful autumn foliage along the route, finishing with the evening illumination at Ruriko-in Temple.
Suggested Itinerary:
- Morning Ticket Exchange: Begin your day by exchanging your ticket at Demachiyanagi Station for the “Ruriko-in Night Illumination Ticket,” which includes your one-day Eizan Railway pass and a round-trip ticket for the Eizan Cable Car.
- Eizan Railway Stops and Attractions:
- Shisendo Temple: Known for its beautiful autumn gardens, this temple offers serene landscapes and historic charm.
- Enko-ji Temple: Famous for its picturesque maple gardens and peaceful ambiance.
- Tanukidani Fudo-in Temple: This temple is dedicated to Fudo Myo-o and nestled in a forested hillside, ideal for those looking for a spiritual retreat.
- Manshu-in Temple: A sub-temple with a traditional Japanese garden, known for its elegant shoin-style architecture.
- Shugakuin Imperial Villa: A beautiful historical villa open for reserved tours.
- Renge-ji Temple: This temple features a tranquil garden that reflects perfectly on the water, especially during autumn.
- Afternoon at Yase-Hieizanguchi:
- Cable Car Ride: At the Yase-Hieizanguchi Station (the Eizan Railway’s final stop), board the Eizan Cable Car to the Cable Hiei Station.
- Observation Deck: Enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck. Although the ropeway to Mount Hiei’s summit and Enryaku-ji Temple isn’t included, you can choose to ride it at an additional cost for a more extensive exploration of Mount Hiei and Enryaku-ji Temple.
- Evening at Rurikoin Temple:
- Return to Yase-Hieizanguchi Station and walk 6 minutes to Ruriko-in Temple, where you’ll experience the mesmerizing night illumination reflecting autumn leaves. This exclusive night access allows visitors to enjoy the beautifully lit gardens and temple interiors in a peaceful ambiance.
This itinerary makes the most of your Eizan Railway pass and gives you a full day of exploring Kyoto’s Rakuhoku area, concluding with the stunning night illumination at Ruriko-in Temple.
