Enryaku-ji & Kyorinbo Temple Autumn Light-Up Tour Departure from Osaka

Witness Japan’s stunning autumn beauty on a full-day tour from Osaka. Explore Mount Hiei’s Enryaku-ji Temple, Omihachiman’s canals, and Kyōrinbō Temple’s glowing maple leaf night illumination.
Uncover Japan’s spiritual and seasonal beauty on this full-day tour from Osaka. Visit Mount Hiei’s sacred Enryaku-ji Temple — known as the birthplace of Japanese Buddhism — explore the canal town of Omihachiman, and admire the glowing autumn leaves at Kyōrinbō Temple during its special night illumination.

Your day begins with a meeting at Nipponbashi Exit 2 in Osaka. Relax as your professional local driver-guide takes you through the countryside toward Kyoto and Shiga.

Stop 1: Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei (approx. 2 hours)
Founded in 788 by the monk Saichō, Enryaku-ji is the head temple of the Tendai sect and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning the vast slopes of Mount Hiei, it consists of three main areas — Tōdō, Saitō, and Yokokawa. Visit the central Konpon Chūdō Hall, where the eternal flame has burned for over 1,200 years, symbolizing the unbroken lineage of Buddhist teaching. Nearby, the Amida Hall offers a peaceful retreat with its famous suikinkutsu (water harp), where water drops create soothing natural melodies.

Stop 2: Omihachiman Canal (approx. 1 hour)
Next, stroll along the scenic Hachiman-bori Canal, once a vital waterway connecting the castle town to Lake Biwa. Built in the 16th century under the Toyotomi clan, the canal supported the rise of the Omi merchants — Japan’s earliest business pioneers. The white-walled storehouses and traditional houses lining the banks have appeared in many historical dramas and films, including Rurouni Kenshin and Mito Kōmon. Enjoy the tranquil charm of this preserved townscape at your own pace.

Stop 3: Kyōrinbō Temple Autumn Illumination (approx. 1 hour)
In the evening, visit Kyōrinbō Temple, a hidden gem in Omihachiman famous for its autumn foliage and limited-time night illumination (mid-November to early December). Founded by Prince Shōtoku in 605 AD, the temple’s garden — designed by the master Kobori Enshū — features moss-covered stones, ancient trees, and a serene atmosphere embodying Japan’s wabi-sabi aesthetics. As night falls, the temple glows in vibrant shades of red and gold, creating a magical scene reminiscent of a painting.

After a relaxing evening among glowing maple trees, your driver will take you back to Kyoto (around 19:40) or Osaka (around 20:50). Drop-off points include the Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori areas — perfect for a post-tour dinner or shopping stroll.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.