Kyoto: Eizan Cable Car and Ropeway Round Trip Ticket

Nestled amidst the lush forests of Mount Hiei lies a thrilling journey that transports visitors to the summit. The Eizan Cable Car and Ropeway offer a unique vantage point to explore Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking panoramic city views or a glimpse into the UNESCO-listed Enryakuji Temple, this round-trip ticket provides an immersive experience that showcases the region’s natural beauty. From the sheer vertical interval to the innovative design, this excursion promises to leave a lasting impression on all who venture up the mountain.

Key Points

• The Eizan Cable Car and Ropeway Round Trip Ticket provides access to both the Eizan Tram and the Mountain Cable Car, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic journey.
• The ticket costs $13.18 per person and is non-refundable, but it offers a convenient way to explore the Enryakuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The cable car ride takes 5-10 minutes and covers a vertical interval of 561 meters, the largest in Japan, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• The ticket can be purchased at the Mountain Tram Yase Station, and the cable car and ropeway operate from 9:00 to 17:00 daily.
• The journey allows visitors to witness the stunning cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant maple leaves in autumn, making it a must-do experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Getting to the Eizan Cable Car

To reach the Eizan Cable Car, visitors can take the Keifuku Electric Railroad‘s Eizan Tram from Kyoto Station. The tram station, called Yasei Hiei Eizan Tram, is a 5-minute walk from the cable car’s Mountain Tram Yase Station. The tram ride takes approximately 30 minutes, offering scenic views of the Higashiyama Mountains.

Once at the Mountain Tram Yase Station, travelers can purchase their Eizan Tram/Mountain Cable Car Round-trip Ticket and proceed to the cable car station. The cable car ride itself takes around 5-10 minutes, providing stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape as it climbs 561 meters in elevation, the largest vertical interval of any cable car in Japan.

About the Eizan Cable Car

The Eizan Cable Car is a Japanese funicular line operated by the Keifuku Electric Railroad, which has been transporting visitors to the summit of Mount Hiei since its opening in 1925.

With a vertical interval of 561 meters, it’s the largest in Japan. The cable car’s route is divided into two parts – a stepped design and an air route with a skywalk.

Riders can enjoy spectacular views throughout the journey, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant maple leaves in autumn.

Upon reaching the top, visitors can explore the world heritage Enryakuji Temple, making the Eizan Cable Car a must-see experience for those exploring Kyoto’s stunning natural and cultural wonders.

Route and Elevation

The Eizan Cable Car‘s route boasts an impressive vertical interval of 561 meters, making it the largest in Japan.

The cable car’s journey is divided into two distinct parts. The first section features a stepped design, while the second part is an air route with a skywalk. This unique layout provides passengers with a breathtaking experience as they ascend the mountain.

The cable car’s incline is steep, offering visitors a thrilling ride and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Whether you’re admiring the cherry blossoms in spring or the vibrant maple leaves in autumn, the Eizan Cable Car’s impressive elevation and route make it a must-visit attraction in Kyoto.

Ticket Information

Visitors can purchase an Eizan Tram/Mountain Cable Car Round-trip Ticket, which costs from $13.18 per person and is non-refundable.

This ticket allows access to both the Eizan Tram and the Mountain Cable Car, which together take passengers on a spectacular journey up the 561-meter vertical interval, the largest in Japan.

The cable car ride is divided into two parts: a stepped design and an air route with a skywalk, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Tickets can be purchased on-site at the Mountain Tram Yase Station, located just a 5-minute walk from the Yasei Hiei Eizan Tram station. Operating hours for ticket exchange are from 9:00 to 17:00 daily.

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Operating Hours

The Eizan Cable Car and Ropeway operate daily, with ticket exchange available from 9:00 to 17:00. This ensures visitors have ample time to plan and embark on their journey to the top of Mount Hiei. The operating hours are as follows:

Activity	Start Time	End Time
Ticket Exchange	9:00 AM	5:00 PM
Cable Car Departure	9:00 AM	5:00 PM
Ropeway Departure	9:00 AM	5:00 PM
Last Descent	5:00 PM	5:00 PM
Temple Visits	9:00 AM	5:00 PM

With these convenient operating hours, visitors can fully enjoy the stunning natural landscapes and the rich cultural heritage of the Enryakuji Temple at the summit.

Highlights of the Journey

A captivating cable car journey awaits, as the Eizan Cable Car scales the 561-meter vertical interval – the largest in Japan.

This stepped design and air route with a skywalk offer breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes.

Highlights of this experience include:

1. Witnessing the stunning cherry blossoms in spring and the vibrant maple leaves in autumn.
2. Marveling at the panoramic views of the Kyoto cityscape and the majestic Mount Hiei.
3. Reaching the renowned Enryakuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, after a thrilling ride.
4. Savoring the sense of adventure and tranquility as you ascend through the serene mountain environment.

Visiting Enryakuji Temple

Reaching the top of Mount Hiei, visitors are greeted by the expansive Enryakuji Temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has served as the headquarters of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism since its founding in 788 CE.

The temple’s numerous buildings, pagodas, and shrines showcase a range of architectural styles spanning centuries. Visitors can explore the tranquil grounds, visit the main hall, and even attend religious services.

With its rich history and scenic mountain setting, Enryakuji provides an immersive cultural experience for those who make the journey.

After taking in the temple’s grandeur, travelers can descend the mountain via the Eizan Cable Car, completing a memorable day of sightseeing in Kyoto.

Seasonal Attractions

Depending on the season, visitors can appreciate the stunning natural beauty of the Eizan Cable Car journey.

In spring, the route showcases the vibrant cherry blossoms, while autumn brings a breathtaking display of maple leaves.

As the cable car ascends the mountain, passengers can:

1. Admire the panoramic vistas of Kyoto’s cityscape below.
2. Spot the iconic Enryakuji Temple perched atop Mount Hiei.
3. Witness the changing hues of the landscape, from lush greenery to fiery shades of red and gold.
4. Capture Instagram-worthy moments against the backdrop of the picturesque mountain scenery.

These seasonal attractions make the Eizan Cable Car experience a must-do for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Restroom at the Cable Car Stations?

Yes, there are restrooms available at both the Mountain Tram Yase Station and the top terminal of the Eizan Cable Car. Visitors can use the facilities before or after their cable car journey.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cable Car?

Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the Eizan Cable Car. However, it’s best to avoid consuming messy or aromatic items during the ride to avoid disturbing other passengers.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The Eizan Cable Car offers discounted tickets for students and seniors. Students can get a 20% discount, while seniors aged 65 and above receive a 10% discount on the regular round-trip ticket price.

How Long Does the Cable Car Journey Typically Take?

The cable car journey typically takes around 5-10 minutes to reach the top of Mount Hiei from the base station. The scenic ride traverses a 561-meter vertical interval, the largest in Japan.

Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of My Visit?

Yes, visitors can purchase Eizan Cable Car tickets on the day of their visit. The tickets are non-refundable and can be bought at the mountain tram station or online in advance to avoid long queues.

Recap

The Eizan Cable Car and Ropeway offer an exhilarating journey to the top of Mount Hiei, showcasing Kyoto’s natural beauty.

The round-trip ticket provides access to both the tram and cable car, allowing visitors to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Enryakuji Temple and appreciate the breathtaking panoramic views.

This experience is especially captivating during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.

You can check if your dates are available here: