Eiheiji Temple

Eiheiji Temple (永平寺, Eiheiji) is a peaceful Zen monastery nestled in the cedar-covered mountains near Fukui City. Founded in 1244 by Dogen, who introduced Soto Zen to Japan, the temple serves as one of the two main centers of Soto Zen Buddhism. The complex includes over 70 buildings connected by covered walkways, designed to protect from heavy winter snow. In autumn, the temple grounds turn into a colorful landscape of red and gold leaves.

Visitors begin at the modern reception hall, which offers sleeping quarters, meditation spaces, and a coffered ceiling in its main hall. From there, covered paths lead to important historic structures like the Sanmon Gate, the Buddha Hall with its statues of three Buddhas, and the founder's hall, where Dogen’s ashes rest. Some areas like the monks’ quarters and kitchen can only be seen from outside, while the belfry near the entrance rings out four times daily, echoing through this sacred site.