Hike
OPTIONAL LOCATION in the 3-day Kyoto itinerary
I recommend skipping this location if you're visiting during summer and the weather is too hot, or if it's raining.
The hike to the top and back takes approximately one hour, so plan your hike accordingly. Please note that it is a steep hike, but relatively short.
Part of the Hiyoshi Taisha shrine.
Situated near the summit of Mount Hachioji, you'll discover two shrines (they resemble miniature versions of Kiyomizu-dera 😅) and a massive sacred rock between them known as the "Great Golden Rock." Inside the rock resides Oyamakui-no-Kami, the Shinto deity who originally presided over nearby Mount Hiei.
Allegedly, the rock is named "Golden" due to its characteristic shine during sunrise.
If the weather is kind enough, you'll also be able to enjoy a pretty nice view of Lake Biwa.
