Things To Do
in Eiheiji
Eiheiji is a tranquil Zen town in Fukui Prefecture anchored by the renowned Eihei-ji temple. Its cedar-lined lanes, traditional inns, and quiet riverside scenes create a serene atmosphere ideal for reflective travel. Visitors come to witness centuries-old monk routines, explore the town on foot, and savor seasonal local flavors.
The town also serves as a gateway to Hakusan’s mountains and Wakasa Bay’s coastline, offering nature and culture in balance.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Komatsu Airport and take a shuttle or train to Eiheiji, enjoying the picturesque Japanese countryside along the way. Check into a traditional ryokan, where you will experience warm hospitality and a taste of local cuisine. Take some time to relax and soak in the serene atmosphere of this small town.
Visit Eiheiji Temple, a significant and historic Zen Buddhist temple founded in the 13th century. Explore the beautiful grounds, marveling at the intricate architecture and peaceful gardens. Attend a Zazen meditation session to connect with the Zen practices that define the essence of Eiheiji.
Dine at the ryokan, where a kaiseki dinner will be served, featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, take an evening stroll through the tranquil streets of Eiheiji, soaking in the calming sounds of nature at night. Retire to your room for a restful night's sleep surrounded by the gentle ambiance of the temple town.
Start your day with a guided morning meditation session at Eiheiji Temple, immersing yourself in the tranquility and focus of Zen Buddhism. Enjoy a simple but delightful breakfast at your ryokan with fresh produce and traditional tea. Afterwards, take time to explore more parts of the temple complex, admiring the stunning architecture of the main hall and other buildings.
Visit a nearby tea plantation and learn about the traditional process of Japanese tea-making, including a tasting session. Engage with local farmers as they share their stories and insights on tea cultivation. Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the rolling tea fields that surround you.
Return to your ryokan and partake in an Onsen experience, soaking in the hot springs that rejuvenate both body and spirit. Savor a quiet dinner at the ryokan, possibly trying local specialties like tofu from Eiheiji. Gather in the common area for a tea ceremony, appreciating the artistry and significance of this tradition.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🚆One-way local transit | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room | $60-120 |
| 🍱Bento or takeaway lunch | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil temple town with serene landscapes
- Rich Zen heritage and nature nearby
- Seasonal seafood and regional cuisine
- Limited nightlife and dining options in the immediate area
- Rural transport can be slower; language barriers may exist
- "こんにちは (Konnichiwa)" - Hello
- "すみません (Sumimasen)" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "お願いします (Onegaishimasu)" - Please
- "ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)" - Thank you very much
- "英語を話せますか？(Eigo o hanasemasu ka?)" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Eiheiji
Visit one of these nice places.
Photogenic temple complex with traditional gates, mossy stones, and serene winter or morning light.
Dramatic basalt cliffs along the Sea of Japan offering sweeping coastal panoramas and sunset shots.
One of Japan’s oldest surviving castles with a moat and seasonal garden settings for atmospheric photos.
Food in Eiheiji
Eiheiji Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Vinegared mackerel on seasoned rice, a Fukui staple often found in markets and river towns.
Must-Try!
Seasonal snow crab served boiled or in hot pots; a winter delicacy widely enjoyed in the region.
Thick buckwheat noodles from the Echizen area, typically served cold with dipping sauce or hot in broth.
Recipes featuring Wakasa Bay seaweed, such as nori-wrapped sushi or seasoned nori snacks.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market offering fresh fish, produce, and ready-to-eat snacks; try grilled seafood skewers and mochi.
Markets in nearby Fukui City with seasonal street foods like taiyaki, yakitori, and sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bow gently when greeting; remove shoes when entering homes and certain temples; keep voices quiet in sacred spaces; photography may be restricted inside temples.
Safety
Tipping in Eiheiji
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite service is included in prices. Rounding up is not expected.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in towns and tourist spots; mobile payments (e.g., Suica, Apple Pay) are increasingly available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms and mild temperatures enhance temple gardens; expect gentle crowds around holidays.
Warm days with higher humidity; great for coastal trips to Wakasa Bay and forest hikes in Hakusan; carry water and sun protection.
Vibrant foliage provides stunning photo opportunities around temples and castle grounds.
Cold with potential snow; crab season peaks, and the temple grounds take on a peaceful, minimal aesthetic.
Eiheiji at Night
Hiking in Eiheiji
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular alpine trails with mountaintop views and evergreen forests.
Forest paths near the town with streams, mossy stones, and tranquil surroundings.
Scenic coastal trail along the basalt cliffs with sea views and dramatic seascapes.
Airports
How to reach Eiheiji by plane.
Closest airport with domestic flights; about 1–2 hours by train or car to Eiheiji.
Major international gateway; onward travel to Fukui by train or domestic flight.
Nearby international gateway with frequent domestic connections to the north and west.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Eiheiji and nearby towns; family-friendly attractions and temples are common.
Visitors come for Eiheiji Temple and Zen culture; some English-speaking information is available at temple halls.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular school and community sport in the region; local teams and events.
Common leisure activity; local matches and clubs throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Eiheiji.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In rural Fukui/Eiheiji, vegetarians should communicate clearly; many dishes are vegetable-forward, but avoid dashi and meat-based broths; ask for tofu or vegetable tempura.