What is Eiheiji Temple?

Eiheiji Temple (永平寺) is one of the two main temples of the Sōtō school of Zen Buddhism in Japan. Located in the forested mountains of Fukui Prefecture, it was founded by the revered Zen master Dōgen in 1244 as a training monastery. To this day, Eiheiji remains an active center of Zen practice where over a hundred monks live in rigorous training.

Visitors can explore parts of the expansive temple complex, which includes beautiful wooden halls, stone paths, and peaceful courtyards. The atmosphere is quiet and deeply spiritual—unlike many tourist-heavy temples, Eiheiji is still primarily a place of religious devotion and discipline.

History and Zen Significance

Eiheiji was founded after Dōgen returned from China, bringing with him the teachings of the Caodong (Sōtō) school of Chan (Zen) Buddhism. He chose this secluded mountain location to create a monastery dedicated to shikantaza—a form of meditation focused on “just sitting.”

Throughout its history, Eiheiji has faced fires and reconstructions, but it has always maintained its role as a key center for Zen training. The temple’s name means “Temple of Eternal Peace”—reflecting its spiritual foundation in calmness and self-discipline.

Many of the current buildings date back to the 18th and 19th centuries and are still used as part of daily monastic life. The architecture is simple yet elegant, representing the Zen aesthetic of refined minimalism.

How to Get There

Eiheiji is located about 30 minutes from Fukui Station. Here’s how to reach it:

• 🚃 From Fukui Station, take the Echizen Railway Katsuyama Eiheiji Line to Eiheijiguchi Station (approx. 25 minutes).
• 🚌 From Eiheijiguchi Station, take the Keifuku bus or Eiheiji Liner shuttle (10–15 minutes) directly to the temple.
• 🚗 By car: About 25 minutes from central Fukui; parking is available nearby.

Guest Experience & Recommended Tours

“The silence inside the temple grounds was almost overwhelming. I arrived just after opening time, and the only sound was monks chanting in the distance. I sat for zazen and felt my thoughts slow down. It was one of the most meaningful moments of my trip to Japan.”

“I wasn’t sure what to expect, but walking barefoot on the wooden corridors, passing monks in training, and copying sutras by hand made me appreciate the depth of Zen practice. It’s not flashy, but it stays with you.”

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What to See at Eiheiji

Eiheiji’s layout follows the traditional “shichidō garan” (seven-hall temple complex) structure. Highlights include:

Sanmon (Main Gate)

The temple’s imposing entrance, symbolizing the start of the spiritual journey. Visitors bow before entering.

Sōdō (Monks’ Hall)

Where monks sleep, eat, and meditate. While access is restricted, you can observe its exterior and feel the energy of monastic life.

Hattō (Dharma Hall)

Used for daily chanting and ceremonies—visitors can sometimes hear the monks’ powerful voices echoing inside.

Hatto Hall and Butsuden (Main Worship Hall)

Dedicated to Shakyamuni Buddha, this is where monks and visitors alike offer prayers.

Zazen and Shakyō Experiences

You can participate in short zazen (seated meditation) or shakyō (sutra copying) sessions. English guidance is sometimes available.

Q&A – Eiheiji Travel Tips

Visitor Info

Address

5-15 Shihi, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui 910-1228, Japan

Hours

8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)

Admission

¥500 for adults
¥200 for children

Experiences Available

• Zazen meditation
• Sutra copying (shakyō)
• Temple stays (limited availability, prior inquiry required)

Official Website

https://daihonzan-eiheiji.com/en/