Eiheiji Temple New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing and Illumination
A Rare Chance to Experience an Eiheiji Temple Tradition
On New Year’s Eve, the bell and central gate of Eiheiji Temple are lit up. Visitors are invited to ring the bell—traditionally, temples in Japan ring their bell to mark the new year. The central gate, which usually stays locked year-round, is opened for this special occasion.
This New Year's Eve event is held at Eiheiji Temple, the head temple of the Soto Zen sect, founded by Zen Master Dogen and boasting over 770 years of history. The temple grounds are fantastically illuminated from New Year's Eve night. Additionally, visitors can experience bell ringing at Jakko-en.
[Dates] December 31 - January 1
[Venue] Head Temple Eiheiji (5-15 Shibi, Eiheiji-cho)
- Area
- Eiheiji, Okuetsu
Information
- Required Time
- Light-up: December 31, 8:30 PM to January 1, 3:00 AM Karamon Gate Opening: December 31, 11:00 PM to January 1, 3:00 AM *Times are subject to change.
- Venue
- Head Temple Eiheiji (5-15 Shibi, Eiheiji-cho)
- Notes
- Eiheiji Town Tourism and Products Association 0776-61-1188
- Address
- 福井県永平寺町志比5-15
- Getting There
- 7 minutes by car from Eiheiji Sando Interchange on the Chubu Jukan Expressway
