Escape the city to view the “Maple Illumination” in Autumn with two convenient pick-up points. You can choose between the following options available in the order box: transport from Osaka (Option 1), or transport from Kyoto (Option 2).
- Option 1: transport from Osaka
- Option 2: transport from Kyoto
Venture up to Mount Hiei, rising 800 metres above Osaka and Kyoto, to explore Enryaku-ji, the Tendai head-temple established in 788. Inside the Konpon-chūdō, you'll find the "eternal dharma-light" that has been burning for twelve centuries. A short walk away, the Amida Hall houses a hidden suikinkutsu water-harp, its crystalline drops echoing the ancient sermons of monk Saichō.
Your journey continues to Ōmihachiman, where you'll stroll along the banks of Hachiman-bori, a merchant canal that once connected Lake Biwa to Edo and Osaka. The scene, featuring white-walled kura warehouses, lattice windows, and arched bridges reflected in calm waters, has been immortalised in numerous samurai films. As dusk approaches, you'll visit Kyorinbō, the "Stone Temple", which opens exclusively during peak foliage season. From early evening, hundreds of lanterns illuminate the moss-covered boulders and vibrant maples, creating a mesmerising atmosphere.
By nightfall, you'll return to Kyoto or Osaka, carrying with you the lasting impression of autumn's splendour and Japan's local history.
