Eihei-ji (Fukui Prefecture)

Amid the ancient mountains of Fukui prefecture is the temple Eihei-ji, one of the two main temples of a Zen sect called Soto. The setting among massive old cedars is spectactularly beautiful, especially with autumn colors in abundance. The temple was founded in 1244, and is now a large complex of some 70 buildings. The fascinating life of trainee monks can be glimpsed here (though photographing them is strictly forbidden and, in spite of great temptation, this should of course be respected).