(Highlights)
Deep in the mountains of Fukui prefecture, Eiheiji Temple was established in 1244 by the Reverend Dogen as the facilities for Buddhist monks undergoing austere Zen training. It consists of 70 buildings being used for conducting various Buddhist practices. The temple is the "Sohonzan" (head temple ) of the "Sotosyu" sect of Buddhism and the source of worshiping among the followers. Besides immersing yourself in the solemn atmosphere the entire temple precincts produce, you can listen to the priests` lectures, participate in a "zazen" meditation and do cleaning the floors. In winter, the entire compound is covered with deep snow each year, creating the picture-perfect scene of a different world.
(How to enjoy)
When arriving at the temple, follow the guidance of the priests who will tell you how to behave politely in a Buddhist temple. You will be amazed at being in the spacious "tatami-matted" halls and seeing the images, decorations, pictures and ornaments for worshiping. While being in the purified environment, you will feel your mind enlightened and your soul refreshed. But, above all, quietly express your appreciation for your presence in the sacred place.
(others)
Transportation: Take a limited-express train bound for Kanazawa at JR Kyoto station and get off at Fukui station. The fare is 5,140 yen (although 200 yen lower on weekdays and in off-travel seasons) and the ride takes some 90 minutes. There is a bus service between Fukui station and Eiheiji Temple for the fare of 720 yen. It will take about 40 minutes.
Admission fee: 500 yen.
Accommodations: You can stay there overnight if you make a reservation two weeks in advance.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At JR Kyoto station
Eiheiji Temple
Restaurants around Eiheiji Temple
Ending Point
At JR Kyoto station
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
guide fee, hotel pick-up in Kyoto area
transportation fee (you and guide), lunch, dinner, entrance fee
I would like at least 7 days notice before a booking.
It took me some 20 years to be qualified for this job and I feel honored for being able to help tourists from abroad understand our nation and culture. Japan is a beautiful country with a long history, tradition and rich cultural heritages, having various features in each of the four distinct seasons. Although there are now many visitors from abroad, mainly from Asian countries, they are mostly interested in shopping taking advantage of cheaper yen rather than understanding our people and culture. Kyoto and Nara are the two cities best known by foreign tourists, but not all the aspects of Japanese culture are concentrated there. If you visit the countryside other than these two cities, you will never fail to see the beautiful natural surroundings and people who will warmly welcome you. I wish to work as the bridge between Japanese people and tourists from all over the world.
“Perfect New Years Day tour”
Hiro led our group of 4 adults and 4 children to multiple temples on January 1st. He was knowledgeable and flexible especially when our little ones got tired, or hungry, or overwhelmed by the large crowds. Thank you for a wonderful experience Hiro!
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Stephanie-san, Thank you very much for your favorable comment and appreciation for my work. I enjoyed being with you all the way and got a lot of energy from the kids. I was amazed at how advanced the technology is in your country: You said you can unlock your house remotely, even when you are in the east coast of the United States. Compared to that sophisticated technology, most of us here in Japan are still relying on the dinosaur-era method such as inserting the key into the door knob. Good luck for you all. Regards, Hiro
Anna P.
Premium tour of Kyoto (2):Nishi-Honganji temple, Higashi-Honganji temple & Shoseien garden
“Second excellent day with Hiro-San!”
Hiro speaks great English and is very knowledgeable and flexible. He made our trip to Kyoto better.
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Anna-san, Thank you very much for your compliment. I am greatly inspired and encouraged by it. I am afraid, though, I was more of your guest than a service provider. I am sure you are now settled in your home in Parkland, Florida. I wish you a very Happy New Year. See you again somewhere sometime in the future. Regards, Hiro
“Excellent tour with Hiro!”
Hiro-San is extremely knowledgeable and flexible. From the time I booked the trip, and even during the trip itself I kept changing my mind about what to see. He came up with helpful suggestions and was very willing to do anything we like. He himself has a great friendly and inquisitive personality. He showed up to our hotel on time and knew exactly which public transportation to take to get to where we needed to be. Thank you, Hiro!
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Anna-san, Thank you very much for giving me the full mark and your compliment. I am just happy we were able to complete the two-day tour without any problem. I am glad you had a glimpse of our society at this time of year when people in general are in a rush to settle accounts. So are the usually serene priests. I wish you all a good health, a good luck and a success in your business. And let me express my heartfelt condolences to Mr. Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. president, who passed away a couple of days ago. Regards, Hiro
$130/ per group