Things To Do
in Eiheiji
Eiheiji is a tranquil village located in the Fukui Prefecture of Japan. It is home to Eiheiji Temple, one of the most prominent Zen training monasteries in the country. The temple complex is surrounded by lush forests and mountainous landscapes, providing a peaceful and serene environment for meditation and contemplation.
Visitors can experience traditional Zen practices and immerse themselves in the rich history and spiritual atmosphere of Eiheiji.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful visit to Eiheiji Temple, known for its stunning architecture and tranquil gardens. Participate in a morning meditation session to center yourself before your adventures.
Enjoy a traditional vegetarian lunch at the temple's dining hall, experiencing the local monk's cuisine. Afterward, take a stroll through the surrounding woods and reflect on the serene atmosphere.
As the sun sets, return to Eiheiji Temple for the evening prayer ceremony. This experience will deepen your appreciation for the culture and spiritual practices of the area.
Start your day with a hike along the nearby mountains, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for the local flora and fauna that thrive in this region.
After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch with a view over the valley. Spend the afternoon exploring the trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and peaceful picnic spots.
As evening falls, find a scenic viewpoint to watch the sunset. The stunning colors filling the sky will create a memorable end to your day in nature.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history as a prominent Zen Buddhist temple
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including gardens and mountains
- Opportunity to experience meditation and Zen practices
- Calm and serene environment conducive to reflection and relaxation
- Authentic traditional Japanese architecture and art
- Limited accessibility for non-Japanese speakers due to language barriers
- May be too remote for those seeking urban amenities
- Weather can be unpredictable, affecting travel plans
- Possibly overcrowded during peak tourist seasons
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities
Best Activities in Eiheiji
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic hiking trails around the historic Eiheiji Temple, surrounded by tranquil forests and serene landscapes.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Yoshida River, taking in beautiful views of nature and the picturesque countryside.
Take guided nature walks through the Eiheiji Forest, where you can observe local wildlife and learn about the region's biodiversity.
Join a photography tour to capture stunning landscapes and the unique architecture of Eiheiji Temple, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Participate in outdoor Zen meditation sessions, utilizing the peaceful surroundings to enhance your mindfulness and relaxation.
Engage in cultural tours that may include traditional crafts and local cuisine workshops, providing an immersive experience of Eiheiji's culture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Eiheiji with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Eiheiji
Visit one of these nice places.
Visit the temple for beautiful views of the surrounding area and opportunities for stunning photographs.
Take a walk across the bridge for picturesque views of the temple and its surroundings, ideal for photo opportunities.
Food in Eiheiji
Eiheiji Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish, Eiheiji Soba features hand-cut buckwheat noodles served in a savory broth. Visit Soba Restaurant Matsuya for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
Experience the freshness of local produce with Eiheiji's seasonal vegetables, renowned for their high quality and exquisite taste. Try them at Eiheiji Akiko's Farm-to-Table Restaurant.
Delight in the unique umami flavor of Heshiko, a traditional fermented fish dish. Sample this delicacy at Heshiko no Sato, a local specialty shop.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Eiheiji better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Eiheiji Morning Market, where you can sample fresh local produce, snacks, and traditional street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Eiheiji, as in much of Japan, bowing is a common form of greeting and showing respect. It's important to bow at an appropriate angle depending on the context, with deeper bows expressing more respect.
Maintaining a quiet demeanor is key in Eiheiji. Loud conversations and boisterous behavior are generally frowned upon, especially in public places and temples, as they can disturb others.
When visiting temples like Eiheiji, it’s essential to follow specific etiquettes, such as removing shoes before entering sacred areas and participating silently in rituals, to show respect for cultural and religious practices.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Eiheiji with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Eiheiji
Ensure a smooth experience
In Eiheiji, Japan, as in much of the country, tipping is generally not practiced and can even be considered rude. Instead, exceptional service is included as part of the overall experience, and staff are trained to provide high-quality service without expecting extra compensation. If a customer wishes to show appreciation, small gestures such as a polite thank you or a compliment to the management are more culturally appropriate.
Payment practices in Eiheiji align with the broader customs of Japan. Cash is still widely used, but credit and debit cards are becoming more common, especially in urban areas. It's customary to place cash in an envelope or tray when paying, rather than handing it directly to the individual. In restaurants, it is also typical to pay at the register rather than at the table. Furthermore, many businesses appreciate a respectful and polite demeanor during transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a lovely time to visit Eiheiji, Japan. The cherry blossoms are in bloom, creating a beautiful and serene atmosphere around the temple. The weather is mild, making it perfect for exploring the temple grounds and enjoying nature.
Summer in Eiheiji can be hot and humid, but it's also a lively time with various cultural festivals and events taking place. Visitors can experience traditional Japanese summer festivities and enjoy local food and entertainment.
Autumn is arguably the best time to visit Eiheiji. The surrounding mountains and forests are adorned with stunning autumn foliage, creating a picturesque and tranquil setting. The weather is cool and comfortable, making it an ideal time for hiking and outdoor activities.
Winter brings a serene and quiet ambiance to Eiheiji. While the temperatures can get cold, the snow-covered landscapes and peaceful temple atmosphere offer a unique and reflective experience for visitors. It's an excellent time for introspection and immersing in the spiritual nature of the temple.
Eiheiji at Night
Hiking in Eiheiji
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A serene hiking trail that leads around the famous Eiheiji Temple, offering a peaceful environment and beautiful views of the surrounding forest.
Located a short drive from Eiheiji, this park features various hiking trails that showcase the natural beauty of Fukui’s diverse landscapes, including mountains and rivers.
A scenic trail along the Kuzuryu River that provides an excellent opportunity for moderate hiking, with picturesque views and access to local wildlife.
This coastal hike offers stunning views of Tsuruga Bay and the sea, ideal for those looking to enjoy both hiking and ocean scenery.
A popular hiking destination near Eiheiji, Mount Asuwa features well-marked trails, lush vegetation, and panoramic views from the summit.
Aiports
How to reach Eiheiji by plane.
Komatsu Airport is located about 80 km north of Eiheiji and serves domestic and limited international flights.
Fukushima Airport is approximately 200 km from Eiheiji, providing both domestic and international flight services.
Chubu Centrair International Airport is located about 230 km southwest of Eiheiji and serves as a major international gateway.
Kansai International Airport is approximately 400 km west of Eiheiji and is one of the largest international airports in Japan.
Osaka Itami Airport, also known as Osaka International Airport, is about 400 km from Eiheiji and mainly handles domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of Eiheiji's population consists of elderly individuals, reflecting Japan's overall aging demographic.
This group includes individuals typically aged 15 to 64, who contribute to the labor force and economic activities in the region.
This demographic includes those aged 0 to 14 years, representing a smaller percentage of the population compared to elderly and working-age groups.
While a smaller demographic, there are foreign residents in Eiheiji, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Japanese martial art and Olympic sport that focuses on throwing and grappling techniques.
A modern Japanese martial art of sword-fighting with bamboo swords, emphasizing discipline and respect.
A popular team sport in Japan, known for its strong fan culture and local high school tournaments.
A widely played team sport in Japan, with a professional league and significant youth participation.
Traditional Japanese wrestling, recognized for its cultural significance and ceremonies; it is Japan's national sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Eiheiji.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Eiheiji's traditional cuisine predominantly features seafood, several restaurants, such as Minka and Gogoan Cafe, offer delectable vegetarian and vegan dishes, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for non-meat eaters.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy Eiheiji Soba, a gluten-free noodle dish, and explore the array of fresh, locally grown vegetables to craft gluten-free dining options at various establishments.