Hieizan Sakamoto Cable Car

The Sakamoto Cable Car, opened in 1927, is the longest cable car in Japan, stretching 2,025 meters. It connects Cable Sakamoto Station at the foot of the mountain with Enryaku-ji Temple. During wartime, it was requisitioned by the navy and used for transporting supplies. The European-style cable cars are named "En-go" and "Fuku-go," symbolizing good fortune and positive connections for visitors to Enryaku-ji. Large windows offer sweeping views of lush forests and Lake Biwa far below as the car ascends Mount Hiei’s steep slopes. The journey to the summit takes about 11 minutes, with ever-changing scenery throughout. Midway stations include the relatively new "Hōraioka" Station and "Motateyama" Station, near the grave of poet Ki no Tsurayuki. Another highlight is the turnout section where ascending and descending cars pass each other. Cable Sakamoto Station is about a 10-minute walk from Sakamoto Station on the Keihan Ishiyama Sakamoto Line.