Taking the cable car up to Mt. Hiei is super convenient and quick. You can see views of Kyoto along the way, and if you go in the right season, it's even more beautiful.
I once took a charter flight straight to Hanamaki Airport to see the autumn leaves in Tohoku. Hanamaki is right in the center of the Tohoku region, so during my five-day trip, I was able to visit lots of famous sightseeing spots without wasting time on long drives. Staying at a Hanamaki onsen ryokan ♨️ was also a really memorable experience.