Tour of Eiheiji Temple
Joined 2014
(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.
Itinerary
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
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
guide fee, hotel pick-up in Kyoto area
transportation fee (you and guide), lunch, dinner, entrance fee
Tour Important Information
Important message from the supplier
I would like at least 7 days notice before a booking.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2014
About Tour Guide Tatsuhiro N.
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.
Reviews
Anangga P.
“Superb Guide in Amano-hashidate from Tatsuhiro-san”
I was so worried leaving my elderly mother and aunts alone touring Amano-hashidate, especially since one of my aunts has just got her knee operated so she needs to be in wheelchair. Thankfully Tatsuhiro-san is there and went well and beyond his task as a guide by also taking care my family while showing the beauty of one of Japanese's often missed scenic spot. Tatsuhiro-san also tried his best to show the elderly entourage the area albeit he himself is not from around it. Alas, the weather is not so favorable this time so we got our Ine-Bay boat trip cancelled by the organizer, but thanks to Tatsuhiro-san's effort and kindness, my mother and aunts came back to the hotel full of smiles. Thank you so much, Tatsuhiro-san!
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Anannga-san, "Dou-itashimashite", meaning no problem at all. I am really glad the tour was completed safely and that your mom and aunts were in full smiles. I am just happy for it. I wish the earliest possible recovery from her knee operation for one of your aunts (sorry, I forgot her name) and the happy life in the days ahead for all of them. Thanks again for the wonderful souvenir and the full mark for me. Good luck. Regards, Hiro
David J.
“Kyoto tour tailored to our needs ”
Our cruise ship was docked in Kobe, and Hiro willingly adjusted his tour to fit in with our need to return to Kobe before the ship sailed away. He met us at Kyoto Station, and returned us there in good time for our return Shinskansen to Kobe. Despite having less time we still had plenty of time to enjoy Kyoto Castle and Kinkakuji Golden pavilion.
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi David-san, Thank you very much for giving me the high grade. I am glad if you could have had a glimpse of our history in the turbulent years and of the beautiful structure. I wish you a happiness and a good health in the years ahead. Regards, Hiro
Chris G.
“Awesome Guide”
I'd like to introduce Tatsuhiro, a kind and thoughtful older gentleman who brings with him a deep understanding of Japanese cultural values. He not only embodies these traditions in his daily life but also offers valuable insight into their meaning, function, and relevance. Through his presence and perspective, Tatsuhiro helps us appreciate the richness and depth of Japanese culture. My last visit to Kyoto was back in 1993, and now, in the year 2025, I finally returned. The city has become a global destination, especially during the beautiful Cherry Blossom season, when visitors from around the world come to experience its magic. During this trip, I visited several incredible sites, including the Golden Pavilion Temple (Kinkaku-ji), the 33 Rooms Temple (Sanjūsangen-dō) with its awe-inspiring thousand-armed Buddhas, the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates, and the breathtaking Kiyomizu Temple. This was a budget-friendly tour, which meant a lot of walking—something that stood out to me as a North American. We’re so used to driving everywhere, while in Japan, walking is deeply woven into daily life. That lifestyle difference might help explain why the Japanese enjoy longer lifespans, even without relying heavily on advanced medical interventions. Personally, I’d love to see an option for tours with vehicle support, even at a higher cost, to accommodate different needs and preferences. Our guide, Tatsuhiro, was exceptional. He is a kind and knowledgeable gentleman who offers deep insight into Japanese culture and tradition. I highly recommend him to anyone visiting Kyoto—his guidance truly enriched the experience. Chris
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Chris-san, Thank you so much for the kind words. I am really encouraged and inspired by your comments which will be the driving force for me to keep on doing this job. See you again. Regards, Hiro
$143/ per group
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