A working Soto Zen training hall and branch temple of Eiheiji that accepts short- and long-term sansen practitioners regardless of background.
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Working Soto Zen Sodo Open to All Comers
Tenryu-ji is a branch temple of Eiheiji, founded in 1653 by Matsudaira Masakatsu, the first lord of Matsuoka. Since the addition of the Koboku-do meditation hall it has operated as an active sodo (Zen training hall) that accepts practitioners regardless of experience, gender, age, nationality or religion.
Saturday Evening Zazen-kai
A regular zazen-kai is held on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month from 19:00 to 21:00, by reservation. Visiting practitioners can also discuss extended short-term or long-term sansen (live-in Zen training) directly with the temple.
10 Minutes from Matsuoka Station
Unlike most Eiheiji-area shukubo, Tenryu-ji is in central Matsuoka and reachable on foot from Matsuoka Station on the Echizen Railway, making it one of the most accessible Soto Zen training halls in Fukui by public transport.
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Frequently Asked Questions
8 questions about Tenryu-ji (Matsuoka)
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn featuring tatami-mat rooms, futon bedding, communal or private baths, and multi-course kaiseki meals. Guests typically wear yukata (cotton robes) provided by the inn. A ryokan stay is one of the most authentic cultural experiences Japan has to offer.
Upon arrival, you'll be provided with a yukata (light cotton robe) and a pair of slippers. You can wear the yukata throughout the ryokan — to dinner, to the onsen, and even for a stroll in the neighborhood. Indoor slippers should be removed before stepping on tatami mats.
Tenryu-ji (Matsuoka) has limited English support. We recommend using a translation app or asking your hotel concierge to help with any pre-arrival communication. The staff is very welcoming and will do their best to assist.
Yes, Tenryu-ji (Matsuoka) can prepare vegetarian meals. Japanese Buddhist cuisine (shojin ryori) is naturally plant-based and beautifully presented. Please inform the ryokan of your dietary requirements at least 2 days before arrival so the chef can prepare accordingly.
Yes, most ryokans including Tenryu-ji (Matsuoka) offer luggage storage for guests arriving before check-in time. You can also use coin lockers at the nearest station or luggage delivery services (takkyubin) to send bags directly from the airport or previous hotel.
Tenryu-ji (Matsuoka) may have limited credit card acceptance. We recommend having Japanese yen (cash) available. ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) accept international cards.
The nearest station is Matsuoka Station (Echizen Railway), approximately 10 minutes on foot. You can reach it by local train, subway, or taxi. The ryokan can provide detailed walking directions upon request.
You can book Tenryu-ji (Matsuoka) through trusted platforms like Booking.com or Expedia. Click the "Check Prices" button on this page to check availability and rates. We recommend booking at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons (cherry blossom in March-April and autumn leaves in November).
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