About
Caption: Hasedera Temple on the wooded hillside with ocean views. Representative image from Wikimedia Commons Hase-dera category containing 26 freely-licensed images
Hasedera Temple (長谷寺, Hase-dera), commonly called Hase-kannon, is one of Kamakura's most beloved Buddhist temples, renowned for housing one of Japan's largest wooden sculptures—a magnificent 9.18-meter tall, gold-gilded eleven-headed Kannon statue. 🔗 Built on a wooded hillside halfway up Mount Kamakura, the temple offers stunning panoramic views over Yuigahama Beach and Sagami Bay, while its terraced gardens showcase over 2,500 hydrangea plants and seasonal flowers year-round. 🔗
According to temple legend dating to 721 CE, a monk named Tokudō carved two identical eleven-headed Kannon statues from a single sacred camphor tree in Hatsuse (present-day Nara Prefecture). One statue was enshrined at Hasedera Temple in Nara, while the other was cast into the ocean with prayers that it would reappear to save people elsewhere. After drifting for fifteen years, the statue washed ashore on Nagai Beach on the Miura Peninsula near Kamakura in 736 CE, leading to the establishment of Hasedera Temple in Kamakura to enshrine this miraculous statue. 🔗
The monumental Kannon statue has endured multiple destructions throughout history. After burning for the fourth time in 1219, it was reconstructed by the renowned sculptor Kaikei and his disciples. The Kannon-do Hall itself was destroyed during the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 but was reconstructed with reinforced concrete nearly 60 years later, ensuring the statue's preservation. 🔗
Cultural & Religious Significance
The temple's principal image, the eleven-headed Kannon (Jūichimen Kannon), stands as one of the largest wooden Buddhist statues in Japan at 9.18 meters (30.1 feet) tall. Carved from camphor wood and adorned with gold gilding, the statue embodies Kannon Bodhisattva, the deity of mercy and compassion in Mahayana Buddhism. 🔗 Each of the eleven heads represents a different phase in the search for enlightenment, with the goddess of mercy watching over suffering beings from all directions. Visitors describe the statue as glowing "with compassion and serenity," creating a profoundly moving spiritual experience. 🔗
Hase-dera Temple holds special significance as the fourth site on the Bando 33 Kannon Pilgrimage route, an important Buddhist pilgrimage circuit seeking blessings from Kannon Bodhisattva across the Kanto region. 🔗 This sacred status has drawn pilgrims for centuries and continues to attract devotees seeking spiritual merit and blessings.
Visiting Information
Hours:
- April through June: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry 5:00 PM)
- July through March: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM) 🔗
Admission:
- Adults: ¥400
- Children (ages 6-11): ¥200
- Kannon Museum (additional): ¥300 adults, ¥150 children
- Payment: Cash only at the entrance 🔗
Special Seasonal Access: During hydrangea season (typically June 7-22, with possible extension), the special "Hydrangea Path" requires timed-entry tickets costing an additional ¥500 per person (elementary school age and above). Advance online booking is strongly recommended due to limited availability. 🔗
Getting There: From Tokyo to Kamakura: Take the JR Yokosuka Line or Shonan Shinjuku Line from Tokyo Station directly to Kamakura Station—a journey of just under one hour covering approximately 50 km. 🔗 This route is fully covered by the JR Pass. The standard one-way fare without a JR Pass is ¥950.
From Kamakura Station to Hasedera: Transfer to the Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway) Line toward Fujisawa and disembark at Hase Station (the third stop from Kamakura). 🔗 Important: The Enoden Line is NOT covered by the JR Pass, requiring a separate fare payment (approximately ¥200 one-way).
Walking from Hase Station: Hasedera Temple is just a 5-minute walk from Hase Station. Exit the station and follow the well-marked signs through the pleasant residential streets toward the temple. 🔗
Alternative: Take a bus from Kamakura Station to Hase-Kannon bus stop (8 minutes), then walk 5 minutes to the temple. 🔗
Cost-Saving Option: Consider purchasing the Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass from Odakyu Railway, which provides unlimited rides on the Enoden Line and is ideal for exploring multiple temples and attractions in the Hase area. 🔗
The Experience
The Kannon-do Hall and Main Statue: The highlight of any Hasedera visit is the awe-inspiring eleven-headed Kannon statue housed in the Kannon-do Hall. Standing at 9.18 meters tall and crafted from gilded camphor wood, this is one of Japan's largest wooden Buddhist sculptures. Important: Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited inside the Kannon-do Hall and museum to maintain the sacred atmosphere. 🔗 Visitors consistently describe the experience of viewing the golden Kannon as profoundly moving, with the statue appearing to "glow with compassion and serenity." 🔗
Observation Deck with Ocean Views: The temple's elevated position halfway up Mount Kamakura provides one of the finest viewpoints in the city. From the observation platform adjacent to the main hall, visitors enjoy sweeping panoramic views across Kamakura's townscape, Yuigahama Beach, and the shimmering expanse of Sagami Bay. 🔗 Tables and chairs are thoughtfully provided for visitors to rest and soak in the "jaw-dropping" coastal vistas. 🔗
The Hydrangea Path (Ajisai-no-Sanga): Hasedera's fame peaks in early summer when approximately 2,500 hydrangea bushes representing about 40 different varieties burst into bloom along the hillside "Hydrangea Path" (Ajisai-no-Sanga). 🔗 This special walking path, comprising about 210 steps, winds through cascading waves of blue, purple, pink, and white blooms with the ocean sparkling in the background—a truly magical sight. The path typically opens from early to mid-June when flowers reach 50% bloom, lasting through late June. 🔗 Tip: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the steps, and arriving right at 8:00 AM opening allows you to experience the blooms in peaceful serenity before crowds arrive. During peak bloom weekends, wait times can reach 75+ minutes by mid-morning.
Gardens and Ponds: Upon entering the temple grounds, visitors are welcomed by beautifully landscaped gardens featuring tranquil koi ponds surrounded by meticulously maintained seasonal flowers and traditional Japanese garden design. 🔗 The temple's nickname, "Kamakura's Western Pure Land Paradise," reflects these harmonious gardens that offer year-round botanical beauty—from spring cherry blossoms to summer hydrangeas, autumn maples to winter camellias. 🔗
Jizo-do Hall and Memorial Statues: Along the stairs ascending the hillside stands the Jizo-do Hall, surrounded by hundreds—even thousands—of small stone statues of Jizo Bodhisattva, the compassionate deity who helps the souls of deceased children reach paradise. 🔗 It is estimated that over 50,000 Jizo statues have been donated to Hase-dera since World War II, with many adorned with knitted bibs, hats, and clothing lovingly placed by parents. 🔗 These statues represent the souls of miscarried, stillborn, or aborted children, creating a deeply moving memorial site. Cultural respect: This is an active memorial where some visitors may be paying their respects. Approach with reverence, speak softly, and be sensitive when photographing this sacred area. 🔗
Benten-kutsu Cave: Near the garden ponds, a small temple hall dedicated to Benten (Benzaiten)—the only female among Japan's Seven Lucky Gods and goddess of feminine beauty, wealth, and eloquence—marks the entrance to the atmospheric Benten-kutsu Cave. 🔗 Inside this candle-lit cave tunnel with low ceilings, visitors encounter statues of Benzaiten and her sixteen children carved directly into the rock walls. 🔗 Small Hono Benzaiten statues can be purchased and offered in the innermost chamber. Note: The cave ceiling becomes extremely low at certain points—taller visitors may need to crouch or even drop to hands and knees. Budget about 15-20 minutes to fully explore this unique underground shrine. 🔗
Amida-do Hall: This hall contains an impressive nearly three-meter-tall golden statue of Amida Buddha, along with Japan's largest mokugyo—a traditional wooden drum played during Buddhist chants, measuring 105 centimeters wide. 🔗
Kannon Museum: Adjacent to the main hall, the Kannon Museum (requiring an additional ¥300 entry fee) houses important temple treasures including Buddhist statues, temple bells, picture scrolls, calligraphy, and other historical artifacts. 🔗 Opened in 1980, the museum features English placards making it accessible to international visitors. Photography is prohibited inside the museum.
Practical Visiting Tips
Seasonal Considerations:
June (Hydrangea Season):
- Weather: Hot and humid with frequent surprise showers; bring an umbrella and dress in light, breathable layers
- Crowds: Extreme crowds with wait times up to 2 hours during peak bloom weekends; arrive at 8:00 AM opening or book timed tickets in advance
- Special features: 2,500+ hydrangeas in full bloom create spectacular photo opportunities
- Photography: Morning light (8:00-10:00 AM) provides the best illumination for hydrangea photography 🔗
Late November to Early December (Autumn Illuminations):
- Special event: Evening illuminations (sunset to 7:30 PM, typically November 23 - December 8)
- Features: Crimson and gold maple leaves illuminated with warm lighting, reflecting in garden ponds; blue-lit Kannon Hall creates mystical atmosphere
- Cost: Regular admission (¥400 adults)
- Tip: Arrive before sunset to enjoy the transition from daylight to the magical illuminated night view 🔗
Winter:
- Advantages: Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere, chilly but manageable weather
- Features: Winter camellias and early plum blossoms
- Recommendation: Excellent season for contemplative visits and easier photography 🔗
Rainy Season (June-July):
- Hydrangeas thrive in the moisture, making drizzly days actually enhance the blooms
- Bring rain gear and waterproof bags for cameras/phones
- Fewer fair-weather tourists mean shorter wait times on rainy days
Photography Opportunities:
Permitted Locations:
- Temple gardens, ponds, and outdoor areas
- Observation deck with ocean views
- Hydrangea Path (when open)
- Jizo statue areas (with cultural sensitivity)
Prohibited Locations:
- Inside Kannon-do Hall (main statue area)
- Inside Kannon Museum 🔗
Best Photo Spots:
- Observation deck for panoramic Kamakura and ocean views
- Garden ponds with temple reflections
- Hydrangea Path stairs with ocean backdrop (June)
- Illuminated autumn maples reflecting in ponds (November-December evenings)
Crowd Avoidance Strategies:
- Best: Weekday mornings at 8:00 AM opening—virtually empty temples and peaceful experiences
- Good: Late afternoon before closing (after 4:00 PM)—day-trippers depart, golden hour light
- Avoid: Weekends and holidays during hydrangea season (June); mid-morning to early afternoon year-round 🔗
Money-Saving Options:
- Use JR Pass for Tokyo-Kamakura train travel (saves ¥950 each way)
- Consider Enoshima-Kamakura Freepass if visiting multiple temples and attractions on the Enoden Line
- Skip the Kannon Museum (additional ¥300) if on a tight budget—the main temple and gardens provide the essential experience
- Bring water and snacks rather than purchasing at temple facilities (though the temple curry is worth trying) 🔗
Dining Options:
Kaikoan Restaurant: All seats overlook Sagami Bay with stunning ocean views. Specializes in "Temple Curry" (shōjin cuisine style) made without animal ingredients, reflecting Buddhist devotional cuisine principles. 🔗
Teraya Cafe: Gate cafe opened in 2016, offering carefully selected coffee, special soft-serve ice cream, and light meals available for takeout. 🔗
Cultural Etiquette:
Prayer Customs: Unlike Shinto shrines where hand-clapping is customary, at Buddhist temples like Hasedera, bow respectfully but do not clap your hands in prayer. 🔗
Jizo Statue Areas: These memorials represent profound grief and hope. Maintain quiet, reverent behavior. If photographing, do so respectfully and avoid blocking paths or disturbing those in prayer. 🔗
Temple Bell: If a bell is available for visitors to ring, do so gently once. Ring bells are meant to purify the heart before worship.
Goshuin (Temple Stamps): Temple stamp collectors can obtain Hasedera's goshuin (¥300) at the shuin-jo (stamp office) located just after the entrance. During busy periods, leave your goshuincho (stamp book) at the counter before exploring so it will be ready when you exit. Pre-made stamps may be provided during peak times for visitors to affix themselves. 🔗
General Temple Respect: Remove hats before entering temple halls. Speak softly. These are active places of worship, not merely sightseeing spots—respect those engaged in prayer. Photography of Buddha statues and deities inside buildings is taboo. 🔗
Practical Facilities:
- Lockers: Coin lockers available near the parking lot 🔗
- Parking: 30 regular car spaces, 4 bus spaces; costs ¥350 per 30 minutes 🔗
- Restrooms: Located near the parking lot (barrier-free with ostomy care facilities) and on temple grounds 🔗
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi available in some temple areas without password requirements 🔗
- Accessibility: Lower gardens are wheelchair accessible, but main hall, museum, and upper gardens require navigating stairs and are not wheelchair accessible. A wheelchair-accessible toilet with rails is located just outside the main entrance. Disability discounts available. 🔗
- Smoking: Prohibited throughout temple grounds; smoking area available in parking lot 🔗
Nearby Attractions:
- Kotoku-in (Great Buddha of Kamakura): Approximately 5 minutes' walk from Hasedera; the iconic 13.35-meter bronze Buddha statue 🔗
- Gokurakuji Temple: Part of a scenic walking trail connecting multiple temples 🔗
- Sasuke Inari Shrine: Atmospheric shrine with thousands of red torii gates
- Kuzuharagaoka-Daibutsu Hiking Trail: Scenic hillside hiking connecting multiple temples
Integration with Itinerary: Hasedera Temple and Kotoku-in (Great Buddha) form the perfect half-day itinerary. Both are accessible from Hase Station, just 5 minutes apart on foot. Allocate 2-3 hours for both temples combined. A typical route: Arrive Hase Station → Hasedera Temple (1.5-2 hours) → walk to Kotoku-in (1 hour) → return to Hase Station or explore Komachi-dori shopping street back at Kamakura Station. 🔗
Important Notes:
- Hydrangea Season Entry System: During peak bloom (early-mid June), Hasedera implements a timed ticket system for the special Hydrangea Path. Online advance booking is strongly recommended. 🔗
- Cash Requirements: The temple entrance is cash-only
- Photography Restrictions: Strictly enforced prohibitions on photography inside the Kannon-do Hall and museum
- Physical Considerations: The temple is built on a hillside with 210+ steps on the Hydrangea Path and additional stairs throughout the grounds
- Summer Heat Advisory: June visits can be extremely hot and humid. Stay hydrated and take breaks
- Respectful Behavior: Hasedera is an active place of worship. The Jizo statue memorial areas are especially sensitive—approach with reverence
Location: View on Google Maps
Source: attractions/kamakura/hasedera-temple.md