Senso-ji
Asakusa, Tokyo, Tokyo Metropolis, Japan Buddhism
Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, centered on devotion to Kannon in historic Asakusa.
Buddhist MonasteryBuddhism
Daihonzan Eihei-ji
大本山永平寺 · Eiheiji Temple
One of the two head monasteries of Soto Zen, founded by Dogen in a forested mountain valley in Fukui.
Sacred Place Overview
About Daihonzan Eihei-ji
Identity, documented context and sacred significance.
Eihei-ji is an active Soto Zen monastery founded by Dogen in 1244. It remains one of the most important training centers in Japanese Zen Buddhism.
Sacred Place at a Glance
A concise view of the place, tradition, location and heritage details available for this Sacred Place.
Place TypeBuddhist Monastery
Religious TraditionBuddhism
Tradition / DenominationSoto Zen
Founder / Historic PatronDogen Zenji
LocationShihi, Eiheiji, Yoshida District, Fukui Prefecture, Japan
CountryJapan
Established / Period1244
ArchitectureZen monastery complex in a mountain forest
Faith, Tradition & Sacred Association
Religious tradition, dedication and sacred associations connected with this place.
Religious TraditionBuddhism
Tradition / DenominationSoto Zen
Founder / Historic PatronDogen Zenji
History & Sacred Tradition
Documented history, sacred narrative and editorial synthesis are kept visibly separate.
Historical Record
Dogen founded Eihei-ji in 1244. It remains an active monastery with a resident monastic community dedicated to Zen training.
Editorial Context
Significance: One of Soto Zen’s principal head monasteries and an internationally known center of Zen training.
Architecture & Sacred Complex
Zen monastery complex in a mountain forest
Practices & Visiting Information
Documented worship, observances and practices where available.
Zazen|Soto Zen monastic practice|memorial and devotional rites
Entry & Visitor Rules
Practical access information and visitor guidance for this Sacred Place.
Restricted areas / visitor rulesVisitors must follow monastery routes and etiquette; some areas are restricted to the monastic community.
Dress, Photography & Conduct
FootwearShoes are removed in designated interior areas.
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Information Status & Sources
Information Status
- Status
- Source Confirmed
- Last checked
- September 23, 2026
- Primary source
- JNTO