Eiheiji Temple

Nestled in the forest-clad hills, around 45 minutes by bus east from Fukui station, the Eiheiji Temple is an active monastery and temple complex that was founded in 1244 by the Buddhist scholar, Dogen. The temple is large, with many different sections and visitors who are staying at the very comfortable Hakujukan ryokan (at the entrance to the temple grounds) are invited to attend a zazen (seated meditation) session, led by one of the monks, and also the early morning prayers, where you will hear the monks doing their incredible and other worldly daily chanting.  The temple’s setting is delightful, surrounded by trees and with a small friendly village. 

A visit to Eiheiji temple is a less-visited alternative to the more popular Mt Koya temple experience in Wakayama.