Eiheiji Town [Eiheiji-cho] is famous for the home of the Eijeiji Temple, one of the two head temples of the Soto sect of Buddhism in Japan, from which the town takes its name. In ancient times, the town flourished as the “Monzencho” [gateway town] to Eiheiji Temple and is dotted with landmarks related to Dogen Zenji, the founder of the Soto sect of Zen Buddhism. Even today, many people visit the town every year to worship at Eiheiji Temple. Located around the Kuzuryu River, the largest river in Fukui Prefecture, Eiheiji Town is also known as the “Town of Clear Streams” and is a place that anglers from all over the country admire and enjoy.

by Train

-From JR Nagoya Station: Take the JR Hokuriku Line “Limited Express Shirasagi” to Fukui Station.

-From JR Tokyo Station: Take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen [Bullet Train] to Fukui Station.

-From JR Fukui Station: Transfer to the Echizen Railway Katsuyama Eiheiji Line to Eiheijiguchi Station.

Points of Interest

The main site in Eiheiji Town is the Eiheiji temple. Founded more than 700 years ago by Zen Master Dogen and is the one of the two head temples of the Soto sect, reposing in a fittingly austere setting. Experience Zen meditation, morning services, and sutra copying. Also, enjoy unique local cuisine and souvenirs in the Eiheiji area.

Eiheiji / 永平寺 (Fukui)

• Eiheiji-cho
• Fukui
• Cultural Experience
• Temples & Shrines
• Historical Sites

Eiheiji Temple, founded in 1244 by Zen Master Dogen, is a Zen training center and the head temple of the Soto sect of Buddhism in Japan. Located deep in the mountains in a verdant natural setting, the...

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