Route Overview
The Hieizan Driveway is a toll road connecting Otsu City in Shiga and Sakyo Ward in Kyoto.
It takes you from the base to near the top of Mt. Hiei.
The main road is about 8.1 km long, starting at “Tanotani Pass Gate” and ending near the summit.
You can also drive on the Okuhiei Driveway (about 11 km) to explore the wider Mt. Hiei area.
Along the road, you can enjoy views of Lake Biwa and Kyoto city.
Recommended Driving Section
From the “Tanotani Pass Gate” to the “Yumemigaoka Viewpoint” is a popular section.
You can see Lake Biwa and the beautiful sky while driving through winding roads.
You can also visit sightseeing spots like the Garden Museum Hiei and Enryakuji Temple along the way.
Road Conditions & Safety
The road is fully paved and well maintained.
It is wide enough for cars and motorcycles to drive comfortably.
There are many curves and slopes, so be careful with your speed, especially when going downhill.
Fog may appear in the morning or evening.
In winter (mid-December to late March), the road may be closed due to snow.
Motorcycles under 125cc and bicycles are not allowed. Only bikes 126cc or more can enter.
Nearby Spots
- Yumemigaoka Viewpoint: Great view of Lake Biwa
- Garden Museum Hiei: Flower garden and art museum (admission fee required)
- Enryakuji Temple: A famous World Heritage temple
- Okuhiei Viewpoints: Quiet rest spots with mountain and lake views
Food & Local Dishes
There are cafés at Yumemigaoka and inside the Garden Museum.
Near Enryakuji Temple, you can try “shojin ryori” (Buddhist vegetarian meals) and yuba (tofu skin) dishes.
At the foot of the mountain, you can also enjoy food made with local ingredients from Lake Biwa.
Toll & Access
Toll (Hieizan Driveway only):
- Regular car: Around 1,800 yen round trip (varies by season/route)
- Motorcycle (126cc+): Around 1,400 yen or more
Okuhiei Driveway has an additional toll.
Access:
- From Kyoto: From Shirakawa Street → Tanotani Gate (about 30 min)
- From Shiga: Take the Lake Biwa West Road → Okuhiei entrance → Driveway
- Parking is available (Yumemigaoka, Enryakuji, summit area, etc.)
Motorcycles under 125cc and bicycles are not allowed.
Best Season & Weather
The best seasons are spring (April–May) and fall (October–November).
In spring, fresh green leaves cover the mountains. In fall, you can see beautiful red and yellow autumn leaves.
In summer, it’s cooler than the city, perfect for a relaxing drive.
Because it’s a mountain, the weather can change quickly. Bring a jacket just in case.
Sample Touring Plan
One-day drive from Kyoto City
Start from Kyoto → Hieizan Driveway → Stop at Yumemigaoka Viewpoint → Walk in Garden Museum Hiei → Visit Enryakuji Temple → Take Okuhiei Driveway to Shiga side → Lunch by Lake Biwa → Return to Kyoto
Total time: about 5–6 hours