Historic Town Prospered for Over A 1000 Years As the Gateway to Enryakuji Temple
The historic town of Sakamoto in Otsu，Shiga Prefecture which only takes a 20 min ride from JR Kyoto Station, is recommended either as an extensional trip of Enryakuji Temple, Mt. Hiei or as a prefect day trip from Kyoto.
Located on the western shore of Lake Biwa, the town of Sakamoto is a historic town prospered for over a 1000 years as the gateway to Enryakuji Temple, Mt. Hiei, the scared mountain that is said to the be the root of Japanese Buddhism. Besides religious spots, traditional-style houses and shops, small water channels from the mountain and moss-covered stone walls along the streets accentuate the town's quaint ambience. Not only must-see religious landmarks as the cluster of temples known as “satobo”, residence of the retired monks, but also some small interesting places on the way where you can get more insights into Japanese history and culture. The natural stone walls constructed by Ano-shu comprise a beautiful and distinctive townscape. The Sakamoto area is also designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.
Sakamoto, renowned for its cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, is also an ideal place to visit in the early summer. The fresh green maple leaves combined with the clear stream flowing through the town will impress you with an energetic, refreshing and relaxing atmosphere.
Located on the western shore of Lake Biwa, the town of Sakamoto is a historic town prospered for over a 1000 years as the gateway to Enryakuji Temple, Mt. Hiei, the scared mountain that is said to the be the root of Japanese Buddhism. Besides religious spots, traditional-style houses and shops, small water channels from the mountain and moss-covered stone walls along the streets accentuate the town's quaint ambience. Not only must-see religious landmarks as the cluster of temples known as “satobo”, residence of the retired monks, but also some small interesting places on the way where you can get more insights into Japanese history and culture. The natural stone walls constructed by Ano-shu comprise a beautiful and distinctive townscape. The Sakamoto area is also designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings.
Sakamoto, renowned for its cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, is also an ideal place to visit in the early summer. The fresh green maple leaves combined with the clear stream flowing through the town will impress you with an energetic, refreshing and relaxing atmosphere.
