🗺️ Mount Hiei Driveway (比叡山Driveway)比叡山ドライブウェイ

The Hieizan Driveway, which leads from Tanogato Pass in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture to the summit of Mount Hiei, is a toll road that stretches 8.1 kilometers. Extending along the beautiful mid-slope of Mount Hiei, the road is lined with lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy the changing natural beauty throughout the four seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, colorful leaves in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter, making it an excellent spot to fully enjoy nature. From the "Yume no Oka" observation deck, one can gaze out at the scenery of Lake Biwa, and on clear days, the Biwa Lake Bridge and Okishima Island can also be seen. There is a café terrace where you can take a break. Additionally, there is the "Beetle House," which hosts summer-only beetle observation activities, and a barbecue area where you can grill while enjoying views of Lake Biwa. Mount Hiei's mid-slope is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hieizan, which has a long history. Visitors can explore the Konponchudo, Shaka-do, and Yokokawa Chudo, or participate in practices such as sutra copying and zazen meditation. Other nearby attractions include the leisure resort "Hotel Riltel de Hieizan" and the "Hieizan Garden Museum," which features abstract gardens worth visiting.

You can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Mount Hiei. There are multiple viewpoints, among which "Yume no Saka" (Dream Hill) is the most popular observation deck. Along the route, there are numerous tourist attractions such as temples, hotels, and garden museums.