4/27/2007

Eiheiji is the head temple of the Soto Sect, a part of Zen Buddhism, in Japan. It was founded by Dogen Zenji in 1244 making this temple almost 800 years old. Eiheiji stand on a hill of a lush, woody forest, about 15 kms from Fukui city. There are about 70 building all together on the hill.

The temple is house to 150 monks and they accept visitors who would like to stay the night there. You can experience the life of a Zen Buddhist monk when you decide to stay in the temple - that means you’ll be eating and living like vegetarian. You’ll probably be invited to listen to buddhist chants as well. Besides accommodation at this beautiful temple, the sights around it is something to behold. You’ll see a little stream flowing through the monastary - it shows how even 800 years ago, the monks have been able to incorporate nature and architecture in a very seamless manner.

You can also stay in the hotels in the main street if the temple is not something you fancy. But if you do wish to stay, the price is 8000 yen for a night or 3000 yen if you’re staying for a few days. Application to stay at the temple needs to made in advance as this is a coveted opportunity that many seek.

How to get there?
Eiheiji is less than one hour from Fukui. How to get to Fukui? There are direct JR limited express trains to Fukui from Osaka (2h, 5360yen), Kyoto (80min, 4300yen), Nagoya (2h, 5040yen) and Maibara (1h, 2770yen) on the Tokaido Shinkansen.

Source: Japan Guide