Mount Hieizan, Kyoto’s eastern mountain range is known for Enryaku-ji. It’s a decent 1day trip out of Kyoto to enjoy gardens, temples and shrines, and hiking.
Former Chikurin-in Temple/ Shiga
Former Chikurin-in Temple, located at the foot of Mount Hieizan in Shiga, originally a villa of Enryaku-ji monks, is famous for its huge and beautiful garden.
Hiyoshi-Taisha Shrine/ Shiga
Hiyoshi-Taisha,a shrine to protect people from misfortune and disasters is located at the foot of Mount Hieizan. The shrine is vey famous for autumn colors.
The Lake Biwa Canal / Otsu, Shiga
The lake biwa canal is one of the best spots for cherry blossom in the Kansai area. Around 600 cherry trees grow along the canal and Mii-dera temple is nearby.
Mii-dera Temple (三井寺) / Otsu, Shiga
Mii-dera is originally the main inner temple of the Tendai-jimon sect. it became an independent temple on the mount Hiei-zan in 13th century. This temple is also famous for its cherry blossoms (1,500 cherry trees on the grounds)
Ishiyama-dera Temple (石山寺) / Otsu, Shiga
Ishiyama-dera, located in Shiga offers a beautiful view with blooming flowers such as cherry blossoms. There are many other historical and cultural properties.