Full Day Tour Eiheiji Buddhist Temple and Fukui City Castle Town

Enjoy Japan’s rich cultural heritage with the Full Day Tour of Eiheiji Buddhist Temple and Fukui City Castle Town. This comprehensive experience includes transportation from Kanazawa, guided visits to the important Sōtō Zen monastery of Eiheiji Temple and the historical Zuigenji Castle, complete with lunch and entry fees. Explore meticulously maintained gardens and impressive architectural details under the guidance of an English-speaking expert, in an intimate group setting. Discover the hidden gems that await in this captivating journey through Japan’s past.

Key Points

• A full-day tour exploring the Eiheiji Buddhist Temple and Fukui City Castle Town, with transportation and an English-speaking guide provided.
• Inclusions such as guided tours at Zuigenji Castle, Eiheiji Temple, and lunch for all participants, offering a comprehensive experience.
• Meeting point at Kanazawa Station, with the tour guide identifiable by a Snow Monkey Resorts tour tag and four large sumo wrestlers.
• Tour priced at $154.43 per person, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
• Key locations visited include the Eiheiji Temple, Sanmon Gate, Hatto, and the well-preserved Zuigenji Castle Rooms.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour explores the renowned Eiheiji Buddhist Temple and the historic Fukui City Castle Town.

Departing from Kanazawa, the tour provides transportation to key sites, including Eiheiji Temple and Zuigenji’s castle rooms. An English-speaking guide leads visitors through these locations, providing insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Lunch is included, and the tour returns to the original meeting point in Kanazawa. With a maximum of 20 travelers, this experience offers an intimate glimpse into the traditions and architecture of Fukui.

The tour is accessible by public transportation and suitable for most visitors.

Inclusions

The tour includes transportation from Fukui Station (Kanazawa start), Eiheiji, and local Fukui buses. An English-speaking guide accompanies the group and provides guided tours at Zuigenji’s castle rooms, Eiheiji Temple, and other locations. The tour fee also covers the entry fee at Eiheiji Temple and a included lunch.

Inclusions
Transportation	Fukui Station, Eiheiji, local Fukui buses
Guided Tours	Zuigenji Castle, Eiheiji Temple, other locations
Fees	Eiheiji Temple entry
Meal	Lunch included

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is Kanazawa Station, outside the Shinkansen ticket gates, in front of the information center.

Look for four large sumo wrestlers and the guide with a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag. The tour ends at the same meeting point.

Participants are advised to arrive on time as the tour starts promptly.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps.

The maximum group size is 20 travelers. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option is available.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

Priced at $154.43 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for travelers. The "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option is also available, allowing guests to secure their spot without immediate payment. The cancellation policy ensures a hassle-free experience, as guests can adjust their plans if needed.

Pricing	Cancellation Policy
$154.43 per person	Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
Reserve Now and Pay Later option available	Provides flexibility for travelers
Competitive pricing for the offered inclusions	Ensures a hassle-free experience

Exploring Eiheiji Temple

Eiheiji Temple, a renowned Sōtō Zen Buddhist monastery, stands as the spiritual heart of the tour.

Visitors enjoy the temple’s serene ambiance, exploring its architectural marvels. The tour guides them through:

1. The Sanmon Gate, an impressive entryway adorned with intricate carvings.
2. The Hatto, the main hall where monastic rituals and teachings take place.
3. The meticulously maintained gardens, offering a tranquil respite amidst the temple’s spiritual atmosphere.

As they navigate the temple’s hallowed grounds, guests gain insight into the rich history and profound significance of Eiheiji, a revered bastion of Zen Buddhism in Japan.

Discovering Zuigenji Castle Rooms

Alongside the serene Eiheiji Temple, the tour ventures into the historic Zuigenji Castle Rooms.

Visitors will step back in time as they explore the well-preserved interiors of this former fortified castle. The guided tour provides insights into the architectural details and the castle’s significance in Fukui’s history.

Guests can admire the ornate wooden carvings, sliding doors, and tatami-matted floors that evoke the grandeur of the Edo period.

This castle tour complements the spiritual experience of Eiheiji, offering a well-rounded understanding of Fukui’s rich cultural heritage.

The combined visits create an immersive day of discovery.

Experiencing Fukui City’s Castle Town

After exploring the historic Zuigenji Castle Rooms, the tour ventures into the heart of Fukui City’s vibrant castle town.

The guide leads the group through the charming streets, showcasing:

1. Traditional machiya townhouses with their distinctive wooden facades.
2. Local artisanal shops offering handmade crafts and specialty foods.
3. The imposing stone walls and moats of the former Fukui Castle, offering a glimpse into the city’s feudal past.

Visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere, experiencing the blend of modern and historical elements that define Fukui City’s unique character.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour begins with a pickup from Kanazawa Station, where the guide and a designated vehicle await participants.

From there, the group travels to Eiheiji Temple, a renowned Buddhist monastery. After exploring the temple, the tour continues to the historic Fukui City Castle Town, where the guide provides a guided tour of the Zuigenji castle rooms and other notable locations.

Throughout the day, transportation is provided, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience. The tour concludes with a return to the original meeting point at Kanazawa Station.

With an English-speaking guide and included lunch, this tour offers a comprehensive and immersive exploration of Fukui’s cultural treasures.

Since You Asked

What Is the Dress Code for the Temple Visit?

The tour does not specify a dress code for the temple visit. However, it’s generally recommended to wear modest, conservative clothing that covers shoulders and knees when visiting Buddhist temples in Japan.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and video recording are generally allowed during the tour, but visitors should be respectful and follow any instructions from the guide or temple staff. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the guide.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Restrictions?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is stroller accessible. Travelers with mobility restrictions may find the tour challenging due to the walking involved. Infants must be carried and sit on laps during the tour.

Can Participants Request Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meals?

The tour provider offers a range of meal options, including vegetarian and special dietary requests. Participants can notify the guide about any dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure their preferences are accommodated.

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Castle Town Exploration?

The tour recommends casual, comfortable clothing suitable for walking around the historic Fukui City Castle Town. Visitors should wear appropriate attire for exploring the outdoor areas and entering religious sites.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour offers an immersive experience in Japan’s cultural heritage. Travelers will visit the renowned Eiheiji Temple, explore the historical Zuigenji Castle, and discover Fukui City’s Castle Town, all while enjoying transportation, guided visits, and lunch. With a small group size, this tour provides an intimate and comprehensive exploration of Japan’s rich history and traditions.