Fukui, Japan -- Hokyoji Temple is nestled quaintly one kilometer deep in the mountains surrounding Ono City, in Fukui Prefecture. Fukui is well known for its lush forests, rural atmosphere and extremely high annual precipitation; over 250 cm annually. Four distinct seasons exist; however humidity is extremely high throughout the year. The region usually receives more than two meters of snow from the end of December to the end of February, the most snowfall in Japan, so winters can be quite harsh.

There are three primary sects of Zen Buddhism found in Japan: Soto, Rinzai and Obaku. The Soto sect has the greatest number of followers. Hokyoji Temple was founded over 700 years ago by Dogen Zenji, the disciple of a monk who went to China for formal studies. It is the second oldest Soto temple in Japan. Hokyoji is very quiet and has a friendly atmosphere. The recently rebuilt complex is located at the end of a narrow, winding, mountain road that passes waterfalls, rivers, and other striking, natural landmarks. The trees are a very lush green and the moss that blankets the boulders and knolls gives one the feeling of being in a green heaven. 

The photos you see in this story are reprints of postcards purchased from Hokyoji Temple proper.