Eiheiji Temple
永平寺
Eiheiji is a major Zen Buddhist temple in Eiheiji Town, Fukui. It was founded in 1244 by the Zen master Dogen and is a head temple of the Soto school. The temple has long been known for its strict practice. Visitors can try zazen (seated meditation), and on some dates guests can stay overnight.
Visitor information
- Opening hours
8:30–16:30 (last entry 16:00). Hours change by season.
- Closed
Open every day.
- Admission
Adults 700 yen; elementary and junior high school students 300 yen; preschool children free.
- Getting there
From Fukui Station East Exit, take the Keifuku Bus "Limited Express Eiheiji Liner" to Eiheiji (about 30 minutes).
Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.
Good to know
- Overnight stays are offered on limited dates and include Buddhist vegetarian (shojin ryori) meals.
Tips for Muslim visitors
- A quick look around takes about one hour. The temple is built on a mountain slope with many stairs, so plan time to rest.
- Eiheiji is an active training monastery. Wear neat, modest clothing, stay quiet, and do not photograph the priests and monks.
- Zazen (meditation) is only for those who book in advance, so day visitors can simply look around.
- Buddhist temples welcome visitors of all faiths. You can enjoy the buildings and gardens without joining any prayer, burning incense or buying charms.
- Many halls ask you to take off your shoes. Wear socks and shoes that are easy to slip off, and keep a bag for your shoes if none is provided.
- Photography is often not allowed inside halls. Follow the signs and ask staff if you are unsure.
- Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Fukui and the verified places to pray nearby.
- Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.
Prayer times in Fukui
Today (5 Nov 2026)
- Fajr04:44
- Sunrise06:21
- Dhuhr11:41
- Asr14:34
- Maghrib16:56
- Isha18:23
Times are calculated for Fukui City. Times may differ elsewhere in Fukui.
Places to pray near Eiheiji Temple
Halal food near Eiheiji Temple
We have not verified a halal restaurant near here yet. Until then, these guides can help you choose food safely:
Distances and walking times are estimates based on straight-line distance.
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Map
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Photo: 掬茶, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sources (Checked 5 Nov 2026): fuku-e.com, daihonzan-eiheiji.com