永平寺を英語で説明・紹介するための基本情報と、英会話に役立つ表現をシンプルでわかりやすい英語で紹介します。
英会話ダイアローグ・関連情報・10の質問を通して、永平寺に関する英語表現を学びます。
英語
英会話ダイアローグを読む前に知っておくと良い前提知識と情報です。
- 永平寺の基本情報
- 場所: 福井県にある曹洞宗の大本山の寺院
- 創建: 1244年、道元禅師によって創建
- 特徴: 禅仏教の修行道場で、静かな山間の自然に囲まれている
- 建物: 約70の建物があり、屋根付きの回廊でつながっている
- 永平寺の見どころと体験
- 山門: 1749年に再建された、最も古い建物の一つ
- 仏殿: 過去・現在・未来の仏像が安置されている寺の中心的建物
- 僧堂: 僧侶が座禅、食事、睡眠を行う修行の場
- 自然の美しさ: 杉の木々、苔むした岩、紅葉や雪景色など四季折々の風景
- 禅体験: 座禅や精進料理を通じて禅の精神に触れる
- 永平寺のアクセス
- 福井駅からバスで約30分
- えちぜん鉄道とローカルバスを利用する方法もある
- 周辺観光地
- 東尋坊: 日本海に面した断崖絶壁
- 福井県立恐竜博物館: 日本最大級の恐竜博物館
- 丸岡城: 日本最古の天守を持つ歴史的な城
- 一乗谷朝倉氏遺跡: 戦国時代の侍の町を再現
2人が永平寺について話しています。
曹洞宗大本山の永平寺の歴史や特徴、見どころ、禅体験や精進料理、ベストシーズン、周辺観光地などを話題にしています。
会話 / dialogue
Hey, Key, have you ever been to Eiheiji Temple? I’ve heard it’s a really special place. I’m thinking of visiting but want to know more about it.
Yes, I’ve been there! It’s one of the main temples of Soto Zen Buddhism and was founded back in 1244 by Dogen. He’s the monk who introduced Soto Zen to Japan. What made you interested?
I’ve been reading about Zen lately, and Eiheiji seems like the perfect place to learn more. What’s it like there?
It’s amazing. The temple has about 70 buildings connected by covered walkways. The architecture is traditional, and the surroundings are peaceful, with cedar trees and mossy rocks everywhere. You can feel the history and spirituality in the air.
That sounds incredible. Are there any specific highlights I shouldn’t miss?
Definitely. The Sanmon Gate is a must-see. It’s one of the oldest structures, rebuilt in 1749, and it’s really impressive. Then there’s the Buddha Hall, where statues of the past, present, and future Buddhas are housed. The Monks’ Hall is also fascinating—it’s where the monks meditate, eat, and sleep.
Wow, it sounds like a whole other world. What do visitors usually do there?
You can walk around the temple grounds and soak in the atmosphere, but I recommend trying Zen meditation, or zazen. It’s a quiet and calming experience. They also serve shojin ryori, vegetarian temple cuisine. It’s all about simplicity and respecting nature.
That’s exactly what I’d like to try. Is there a best time to visit?
Autumn is breathtaking with the red and yellow leaves, but winter has its own charm with snow covering the temple. Both seasons are great if you want to experience Eiheiji’s beauty at its peak.
I see. Are there any other places around Eiheiji worth visiting?
Oh, plenty! The Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins is nearby—it’s a reconstructed samurai town. If you like nature, the cliffs at Tojinbo are stunning. And if you’re into dinosaurs, the Fukui Dinosaur Museum is one of the best in Japan.
Sounds like I could spend a whole weekend there! How do I get to Eiheiji?
It’s pretty easy. From Fukui Station, you can take a direct bus, which takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the Echizen Railway to Eiheiji-guchi Station and then a local bus.
Good to know. Is it possible to stay overnight at the temple?
Yes, you can stay overnight and join the monks’ daily schedule, including meditation and morning prayers. If you prefer more comfort, there are nearby accommodations where you can enjoy Zen-style experiences without the strict routine.
That sounds perfect. I’d like to try the temple stay for the full experience.
Great choice! It’s a chance to step into the world of Zen, even for a short while. I think you’ll really enjoy it.
Thanks, Key. I’m convinced! I’ll start planning my trip.
You’re welcome. Let me know how it goes. I’m sure you’ll find it inspiring!
関連情報 / related information
「永平寺」について、理解を深めるための「英語での関連情報」です。
永平寺
Introduction to Eiheiji
Eiheiji is a famous temple located in Fukui Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the main temples of Soto Zen Buddhism and was founded in 1244 by Dogen, a monk who brought Soto Zen to Japan. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful natural surroundings, and as a place for Zen training. Eiheiji means “Temple of Eternal Peace,” and it remains an important spiritual center for both monks and visitors.
History of Eiheiji
Dogen founded Eiheiji to create a place where monks could practice Zen without distractions. He chose a quiet mountain area for its peaceful environment. Over the centuries, Eiheiji has been rebuilt several times due to fires and wars, but it continues to be a symbol of Zen practice in Japan. The traditions established by Dogen are still followed by monks today.
Features of the Temple
Eiheiji has about 70 buildings connected by covered walkways. Key buildings include the Sanmon Gate, Buddha Hall, and Monks’ Hall. The Sanmon Gate, rebuilt in 1749, is one of the oldest structures at Eiheiji. The Buddha Hall houses statues of the past, present, and future Buddhas. The Monks’ Hall is where monks meditate, eat, and sleep. The architecture reflects traditional Japanese styles and is surrounded by cedar trees and moss-covered rocks.
Activities for Visitors
Visitors to Eiheiji can enjoy walking around the temple grounds, trying Zen meditation (zazen), and tasting vegetarian temple cuisine (shojin ryori). Meditation offers a calming experience, and the meals focus on simplicity and respect for nature. Eiheiji is especially beautiful in autumn with colorful leaves or in winter with snow-covered scenery. It’s a perfect place to experience the peaceful spirit of Zen Buddhism.
10の質問 / 10 questions
「永平寺」について、理解を深めるための「英語での10の質問」です。
1: What is Eiheiji?
Eiheiji is a famous Zen temple located in Fukui Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the main temples of Soto Zen Buddhism and was founded in 1244 by Dogen, who brought Soto Zen to Japan.
2: Why was Eiheiji built?
Eiheiji was built by Dogen to create a peaceful place where monks could practice Zen Buddhism without distractions. It is located in a quiet mountain area for this purpose.
3: What does the name “Eiheiji” mean?
The name “Eiheiji” means “Temple of Eternal Peace.” It reflects the temple’s purpose of providing a serene and spiritual environment for meditation and Zen practice.
4: What are the main features of Eiheiji?
Eiheiji has about 70 buildings, including the Sanmon Gate, Buddha Hall, and Monks’ Hall. The temple is surrounded by cedar trees and moss-covered rocks, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
5: What can visitors do at Eiheiji?
Visitors can walk around the temple grounds, try Zen meditation (zazen), and enjoy vegetarian temple cuisine (shojin ryori). These activities allow visitors to experience Zen Buddhism.
6: What is zazen?
Zazen is a form of seated meditation that focuses on mindfulness and breathing. It is an important part of Zen practice and is offered to visitors at Eiheiji.
7: What is shojin ryori?
Shojin ryori is traditional vegetarian temple cuisine. It emphasizes simplicity and respect for nature, using seasonal ingredients without waste.
8: When is the best time to visit Eiheiji?
The best times to visit are autumn, when the leaves turn red and yellow, and winter, when the temple is covered in snow. Both seasons show Eiheiji’s beauty.
9: How can visitors get to Eiheiji?
Visitors can take a bus from Fukui Station, which takes about 30 minutes. Another option is to take the Echizen Railway to Eiheiji-guchi Station and transfer to a local bus.
10: Are there accommodations near Eiheiji?
Yes, visitors can stay overnight at the temple for a Zen experience, or they can choose nearby accommodations that offer more comfort but still provide Zen-related activities.
和訳付
会話 / dialogue
Hey, Key, have you ever been to Eiheiji Temple? I’ve heard it’s a really special place. I’m thinking of visiting but want to know more about it.
ねえ、キー、永平寺に行ったことある？特別な場所だって聞いたんだ。行ってみたいけど、もっと知りたくてさ。
Yes, I’ve been there! It’s one of the main temples of Soto Zen Buddhism and was founded back in 1244 by Dogen. He’s the monk who introduced Soto Zen to Japan. What made you interested?
うん、行ったことあるよ！永平寺は曹洞宗の大本山のひとつで、1244年に道元によって創建されたんだ。道元は曹洞禅を日本に伝えた僧侶なんだよ。どうして興味を持ったの？
I’ve been reading about Zen lately, and Eiheiji seems like the perfect place to learn more. What’s it like there?
最近、禅について読んでいて、永平寺が学ぶのにぴったりの場所に思えたんだ。どんな感じの場所？
It’s amazing. The temple has about 70 buildings connected by covered walkways. The architecture is traditional, and the surroundings are peaceful, with cedar trees and mossy rocks everywhere. You can feel the history and spirituality in the air.
素晴らしい場所だよ。永平寺には約70の建物があって、屋根付きの回廊でつながっているんだ。建築は伝統的で、杉の木や苔むした岩に囲まれていてとても静か。歴史と精神性が感じられるよ。
That sounds incredible. Are there any specific highlights I shouldn’t miss?
それはすごいな。絶対見逃せないポイントってある？
Definitely. The Sanmon Gate is a must-see. It’s one of the oldest structures, rebuilt in 1749, and it’s really impressive. Then there’s the Buddha Hall, where statues of the past, present, and future Buddhas are housed. The Monks’ Hall is also fascinating—it’s where the monks meditate, eat, and sleep.
もちろん！山門は必見だよ。1749年に再建された永平寺で最も古い建物のひとつで、すごく印象的だよ。それに仏殿では過去・現在・未来の仏像が祀られているんだ。僧堂も面白いよ。僧侶たちが座禅したり、食事したり、眠ったりする場所なんだ。
Wow, it sounds like a whole other world. What do visitors usually do there?
わあ、まるで別世界みたいだね。訪問者は普段何をするの？
You can walk around the temple grounds and soak in the atmosphere, but I recommend trying Zen meditation, or zazen. It’s a quiet and calming experience. They also serve shojin ryori, vegetarian temple cuisine. It’s all about simplicity and respecting nature.
敷地を歩いて雰囲気を楽しむことができるけど、座禅を試してみるのがおすすめだよ。とても静かで落ち着く体験だ。それに精進料理も提供していて、シンプルさと自然への尊敬がテーマなんだ。
That’s exactly what I’d like to try. Is there a best time to visit?
それはぜひやってみたいな。訪れるのに一番いい時期はいつ？
Autumn is breathtaking with the red and yellow leaves, but winter has its own charm with snow covering the temple. Both seasons are great if you want to experience Eiheiji’s beauty at its peak.
秋は赤や黄色の紅葉がとても綺麗で息を呑むようだよ。でも冬も、雪に覆われた寺院の魅力があるんだ。どちらの季節も永平寺の美しさを最大限に楽しめるよ。
I see. Are there any other places around Eiheiji worth visiting?
なるほど。他に永平寺の周りで訪れる価値のある場所はある？
Oh, plenty! The Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins is nearby—it’s a reconstructed samurai town. If you like nature, the cliffs at Tojinbo are stunning. And if you’re into dinosaurs, the Fukui Dinosaur Museum is one of the best in Japan.
たくさんあるよ！一乗谷朝倉氏遺跡は近くにあって、再現された侍の町だよ。自然が好きなら、東尋坊の崖は素晴らしいし、恐竜に興味があるなら福井恐竜博物館は日本でも最高の博物館のひとつだよ。
Sounds like I could spend a whole weekend there! How do I get to Eiheiji?
週末ずっと楽しめそうだね！永平寺へはどうやって行けばいい？
It’s pretty easy. From Fukui Station, you can take a direct bus, which takes about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the Echizen Railway to Eiheiji-guchi Station and then a local bus.
簡単だよ。福井駅から直通バスで約30分。あるいは、えちぜん鉄道で永平寺口駅まで行って、そこからローカルバスに乗る方法もあるよ。
Good to know. Is it possible to stay overnight at the temple?
なるほど。寺に泊まることはできるの？
Yes, you can stay overnight and join the monks’ daily schedule, including meditation and morning prayers. If you prefer more comfort, there are nearby accommodations where you can enjoy Zen-style experiences without the strict routine.
うん、泊まれるよ。座禅や朝のお勤めなど、僧侶の一日を体験することができるんだ。もっと快適な滞在を望むなら、近くに禅の雰囲気を楽しめる宿泊施設もあるよ。
That sounds perfect. I’d like to try the temple stay for the full experience.
それは最高だね。本格的に体験するために寺に泊まりたいな。
Great choice! It’s a chance to step into the world of Zen, even for a short while. I think you’ll really enjoy it.
いい選択だね！短い間でも禅の世界に触れることができる貴重な機会だよ。きっと楽しめると思うよ。
Thanks, Key. I’m convinced! I’ll start planning my trip.
ありがとう、キー。行く気になったよ！早速計画を立てるよ。
You’re welcome. Let me know how it goes. I’m sure you’ll find it inspiring!
どういたしまして。どうだったか教えてね。きっと心に響く体験になると思うよ！
関連情報 / related information
永平寺
Introduction to Eiheiji
Eiheiji is a famous temple located in Fukui Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the main temples of Soto Zen Buddhism and was founded in 1244 by Dogen, a monk who brought Soto Zen to Japan. The temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful natural surroundings, and as a place for Zen training. Eiheiji means “Temple of Eternal Peace,” and it remains an important spiritual center for both monks and visitors.
永平寺について
永平寺は、日本の福井県にある有名な寺院です。曹洞宗の大本山の一つであり、1244年に曹洞禅を日本に伝えた僧侶・道元によって創建されました。この寺は、静寂な雰囲気、美しい自然環境、そして禅修行の場として知られています。「永平寺」という名前は「永遠の平和の寺」という意味があり、僧侶や訪問者にとって重要な精神的中心地となっています。
History of Eiheiji
Dogen founded Eiheiji to create a place where monks could practice Zen without distractions. He chose a quiet mountain area for its peaceful environment. Over the centuries, Eiheiji has been rebuilt several times due to fires and wars, but it continues to be a symbol of Zen practice in Japan. The traditions established by Dogen are still followed by monks today.
永平寺の歴史
道元は、僧侶たちが雑念なく禅を修行できる場所を作るために永平寺を創建しました。彼は静かな環境を求めて山間の土地を選びました。永平寺は何世紀にもわたり火災や戦乱で何度も再建されましたが、日本の禅修行の象徴であり続けています。道元が築いた伝統は、現在も僧侶たちによって受け継がれています。
Features of the Temple
Eiheiji has about 70 buildings connected by covered walkways. Key buildings include the Sanmon Gate, Buddha Hall, and Monks’ Hall. The Sanmon Gate, rebuilt in 1749, is one of the oldest structures at Eiheiji. The Buddha Hall houses statues of the past, present, and future Buddhas. The Monks’ Hall is where monks meditate, eat, and sleep. The architecture reflects traditional Japanese styles and is surrounded by cedar trees and moss-covered rocks.
永平寺の特徴
永平寺には約70の建物があり、それらは屋根付きの回廊でつながっています。主要な建物には山門、仏殿、僧堂があります。山門は1749年に再建され、永平寺で最も古い建物の一つです。仏殿には過去・現在・未来の仏像が安置されています。僧堂は僧侶が座禅、食事、睡眠を行う場所です。建築は伝統的な日本の様式を反映しており、杉の木や苔むした岩に囲まれています。
Activities for Visitors
Visitors to Eiheiji can enjoy walking around the temple grounds, trying Zen meditation (zazen), and tasting vegetarian temple cuisine (shojin ryori). Meditation offers a calming experience, and the meals focus on simplicity and respect for nature. Eiheiji is especially beautiful in autumn with colorful leaves or in winter with snow-covered scenery. It’s a perfect place to experience the peaceful spirit of Zen Buddhism.
訪問者のための体験
永平寺では、寺院の敷地を歩いて楽しんだり、座禅を体験したり、精進料理を味わったりすることができます。座禅は心を落ち着かせる体験であり、精進料理はシンプルさと自然への尊敬に重点を置いています。秋の紅葉や冬の雪景色の中での永平寺は特に美しく、禅仏教の静かな精神を体験するのに最適な場所です。
10の質問 / 10 questions
1: What is Eiheiji?
永平寺とは何ですか？
Eiheiji is a famous Zen temple located in Fukui Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the main temples of Soto Zen Buddhism and was founded in 1244 by Dogen.
永平寺は日本の福井県にある有名な禅寺です。曹洞宗の大本山の一つで、1244年に道元によって創建されました。
2: Why was Eiheiji built?
永平寺はなぜ建てられたのですか？
Eiheiji was built by Dogen to create a peaceful place where monks could practice Zen Buddhism without distractions.
永平寺は道元によって、僧侶たちが雑念なく禅の修行を行える静かな場所を作るために建てられました。
3: What does the name “Eiheiji” mean?
「永平寺」という名前は何を意味しますか？
The name “Eiheiji” means “Temple of Eternal Peace,” reflecting its purpose of providing a serene and spiritual environment.
「永平寺」という名前は「永遠の平和の寺」を意味し、静かで精神的な環境を提供する目的を表しています。
4: What are the main features of Eiheiji?
永平寺の主な特徴は何ですか？
Eiheiji has about 70 buildings, including the Sanmon Gate, Buddha Hall, and Monks’ Hall, surrounded by cedar trees and mossy rocks.
永平寺には山門、仏殿、僧堂を含む約70の建物があり、杉の木々や苔むした岩に囲まれています。
5: What can visitors do at Eiheiji?
永平寺で訪問者は何ができますか？
Visitors can explore the temple grounds, try Zen meditation (zazen), and enjoy vegetarian temple cuisine (shojin ryori).
訪問者は寺院の敷地を探索したり、座禅を体験したり、精進料理を楽しむことができます。
6: What is zazen?
座禅とは何ですか？
Zazen is a form of seated meditation focusing on mindfulness and breathing, an essential practice in Zen Buddhism.
座禅は、禅仏教で重要な修行で、心の集中と呼吸に焦点を当てた座って行う瞑想です。
7: What is shojin ryori?
精進料理とは何ですか？
Shojin ryori is traditional vegetarian temple cuisine that emphasizes simplicity and respect for nature.
精進料理は、シンプルさと自然への敬意を重視した伝統的な寺院の菜食料理です。
8: When is the best time to visit Eiheiji?
永平寺を訪れるのに最適な時期はいつですか？
Autumn, with its colorful leaves, and winter, with snow-covered scenery, are the best times to experience Eiheiji’s beauty.
秋の紅葉や雪景色の冬は、永平寺の美しさを楽しむのに最適な時期です。
9: How can visitors get to Eiheiji?
永平寺へはどのように行けますか？
Visitors can take a bus from Fukui Station, or use the Echizen Railway to Eiheiji-guchi Station and transfer to a local bus.
訪問者は福井駅からバスを利用するか、えちぜん鉄道で永平寺口駅まで行き、ローカルバスに乗り換えることができます。
10: Are there accommodations near Eiheiji?
永平寺の近くに宿泊施設はありますか？
Yes, visitors can stay at the temple for a Zen experience or choose nearby accommodations with more comfort.
はい、訪問者は寺院に宿泊して禅を体験したり、より快適な近隣の宿泊施設を選ぶことができます。
words & phrases
英会話ダイアローグと関連情報に出てきた単語・フレーズです（例文は各３つ）。
covered walkway : 名詞
意味: 屋根付きの通路。A passage with a roof that protects people from weather like rain or sun.
（永平寺の建物をつなぐ屋根付き回廊を指し、天候を問わず快適に移動できる構造を説明する際に使用）
例文：
- The covered walkway connects all the buildings in the temple.
「屋根付きの回廊が寺院の建物をすべてつないでいます。」 - They built a covered walkway to protect visitors from the rain.
「訪問者を雨から守るために屋根付きの通路を作りました。」 - A covered walkway is useful in places with heavy snow.
「屋根付きの通路は雪の多い地域で役立ちます。」
surrounding : 形容詞・名詞
意味: 周囲の、または周囲の環境。Near or around something; the area or things near a particular place.
（永平寺を囲む自然（杉の木や苔むした岩）を表現する際に使用）
例文：
- The temple is peaceful because of its natural surroundings.
「寺院は自然に囲まれているため静かです。」 - We enjoyed the beautiful surroundings during our hike.
「ハイキング中、美しい周囲の景色を楽しみました。」 - The house blends well with its surrounding forest.
「その家は周囲の森とよく調和しています。」
mossy : 形容詞
意味: 苔むした、苔で覆われた。Covered with moss, a small green plant that grows in damp places.
（永平寺の敷地内にある苔むした岩や木々を説明する際に使用）
例文：
- The mossy rocks add to the temple’s serene atmosphere.
「苔むした岩が寺院の静かな雰囲気を引き立てています。」 - Be careful when walking on the mossy path; it can be slippery.
「苔むした道を歩くときは注意してください。滑りやすいです。」 - The garden was filled with mossy stones and small plants.
「庭は苔むした石と小さな植物でいっぱいでした。」
spirituality : 名詞
意味: 精神性、霊性。The quality of being concerned with the human spirit or soul rather than material things.
（永平寺が持つ精神性や禅の精神を説明する際に使用）
例文：
- The temple is a place of deep spirituality and reflection.
「その寺は深い精神性と内省の場所です。」 - She finds spirituality in nature and meditation.
「彼女は自然や瞑想に精神性を見出します。」 - The painting captures the spirituality of the Zen tradition.
「その絵画は禅の伝統の精神性を表現しています。」
at its peak : フレーズ
意味: 絶頂で、最も盛んな時期で。At the highest or best point.
（永平寺が最も美しい秋や冬の絶頂期を表現する際に使用）
例文：
- Eiheiji is at its peak in autumn with colorful leaves.
「永平寺は秋の紅葉が最も美しい時期です。」 - The singer was at her peak during the 1990s.
「その歌手は1990年代に絶頂期を迎えました。」 - The company’s sales are at their peak during the holiday season.
「その会社の売り上げはホリデーシーズンに絶頂に達します。」