Complete Guide to Hase-dera Temple in Nara | Encountering the Four Seasons’ Flowers and Kannon
Hase-dera Temple (長谷寺), located in Hatsuse, Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, is the head temple of the Toyosan School of Shingon Buddhism, affectionately known as the “Temple of Flowers” (花の御寺). The temple grounds are beautified by flowers throughout the four seasons, and it is nationally renowned especially as a famous site for peonies. This article comprehensively introduces information you should know before visiting, including the temple’s history, highlights, access methods, and annual events.
About Hase-dera | History and Overview of the Temple of Flowers
The Founding and History of Hase-dera
The founding of Hase-dera dates back to the era of Emperor Tenmu during the Nara period. In 686 (Shucho 1), it is said to have begun when the high priest Domyo placed the “Copper Plate Lotus Sutra Expounding Diagram” on the western hill of Mount Hatsuse for Emperor Tenmu.
Subsequently, in 727 (Jinki 4), the high priest Tokudo, by imperial decree of Emperor Shomu, enshrined the main object of worship, the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva statue, on the eastern hill, and the temple was formally established. Tokudo is also known as the founder of the Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites in Western Japan, and Hase-dera has welcomed many pilgrims as the eighth numbered temple.
During the Heian period, pilgrimage by nobility and imperial family became frequent, and the temple appears in many classical literary works including “The Tale of Genji,” “The Pillow Book,” and “The Sarashina Diary.” In particular, in the “Tamakazura” chapter of “The Tale of Genji,” a scene depicts Tamakazura making a pilgrimage to Hase-dera, suggesting that by that time the temple was widely revered as a Kannon pilgrimage site.
Status as Head Temple of the Toyosan School of Shingon Buddhism
Hase-dera is the head temple of the Toyosan School of Shingon Buddhism and possesses approximately 3,000 branch temples nationwide. The Toyosan School is a Buddhist sect established in the 16th century by the high priest Senyo, and centered on Hase-dera, it has spread the teachings of Shingon esoteric Buddhism.
Today, it continues to function as a training monastery for priests, with many monks undertaking training here. It also plays an important role as a research and educational institution for Buddhist culture.
Highlights of Hase-dera | Complete Coverage of Must-See Spots
The Main Object of Worship: Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva Standing Statue
The greatest attraction of Hase-dera is the main object of worship, the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva standing statue enshrined in the main hall. With a height of 10.18 meters (approximately 12 meters including the pedestal), it is one of Japan’s largest wooden Buddhist statues, holding a khakkhara staff in the right hand and a water vessel in the left hand in a unique pose.
This Kannon image is called the “Hase-dera Style Eleven-Faced Kannon” and has influenced Hase-dera temples and Hase Kannon throughout the country. The current statue was created in 1538 (Tenmon 7) and is designated as an important cultural property of the nation.
A “special viewing” allowing direct contact with the Kannon’s feet (ommiashi) is held in spring and autumn, with many worshippers visiting seeking a direct connection with the Kannon.
The Noboiro | A Beautiful Corridor of 399 Steps
The noboiro (ascending corridor), a symbol of Hase-dera, is a roofed staircase corridor extending from the Niomon Gate to the main hall. Continuing for approximately 200 meters with 399 stone steps, it is divided into three sections: the lower, middle, and upper corridors.
The noboiro was constructed from the Heian through Muromachi periods and is designated as an important cultural property. The contrast between the red-lacquered pillars and white walls is beautiful, with different flowers adorning both sides according to the season. Especially during peony season, colorful peonies bloom on both sides of the corridor, creating the sensation of walking through a tunnel of flowers.
There are rest areas along the way, allowing leisurely enjoyment of the scenery. Given the large number of steps, those lacking confidence in stamina are advised to allow ample time for the visit.
The Main Hall (Kannon Hall) | A National Treasure with Stage Architecture
The main hall was rebuilt in 1650 (Keian 3) with donations from Tokugawa Iemitsu and is designated as a national treasure. Like Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera, it features a cantilevered or “stage” structure and is built on a steep slope.
From the stage of the main hall, one can view the town of Hatsuse and surrounding mountains at a glance, particularly spectacular in cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. The interior sanctuary is decorated luxuriously, with the main object of worship, the Eleven-Faced Kannon standing statue, at center, alongside attendant deities such as the Nanda Dragon King and Usui Boy statues.
Inside the main hall, one can also experience copying sutras or Buddha figures, finding peace in quiet space.
Five-Story Pagoda | A Beautiful Pagoda Built in the Showa Period
Hase-dera’s five-story pagoda was erected in 1954 (Showa 29) to console the war dead, a relatively new pagoda. Standing approximately 31 meters tall, this three-bay five-story pagoda is located on high ground west of the main hall.
While following classical architectural style, it was constructed using reinforced concrete, a modern building technique, creating architecture where tradition and innovation merge. During cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, the five-story pagoda combined with flowers is popular as a photography spot.
The Niomon Gate and Bell Tower
The Niomon Gate at the temple entrance was rebuilt in 1894 (Meiji 27) and houses gold-plated guardian kings (Niomon statues) on both sides. These guardian king statues are said to date from the Muromachi period and greet visitors with an imposing expression.
The bell tower located along the noboiro is a structure built in 1667 (Kanbun 7) and designated as an important cultural property. On New Year’s Eve, visitors can ring the bell for the New Year tradition, attracting many worshippers.
Four Seasons of Flowers | The Temple of Flowers’ Annual Calendar
Spring | A Competition Between Cherry Blossoms and Peonies
Hase-dera’s spring features approximately 1,000 cherry blossoms blooming from late March through early April. The grounds are beautified by diverse varieties centered on Somei Yoshino, including wild cherry and weeping cherry. The spectacle of cherry blossoms viewed from the ascending corridor looking upward or looking down from the main hall stage is breathtaking.
From mid-April through early May, as the cherry blossoms fade, Hase-dera’s greatest attraction, peonies, reach their peak bloom. The grounds are planted with approximately 7,000 peonies of over 150 varieties, and the “Peony Festival” is held. A spectacular display unfolds as large, luxurious flowers of red, white, pink, and yellow bloom, befitting the temple’s name as the “Temple of Flowers.”
Peonies are also called the “king of flowers,” and their splendid appearance has long been cherished by the Japanese people. Hase-dera’s peonies boast one of Japan’s largest scales in both variety and quantity.
Early Summer | Rhododendrons and Azaleas
From mid-May through early June, rhododendrons and azaleas reach their peak bloom. Particularly around the abbots’ quarters, many rhododendrons are planted, with pink and white flowers blooming elegantly.
Azaleas are also planted throughout the grounds, adding vibrant colors to early summer at Hase-dera.
Rainy Season | Hydrangea-Lined Path
From mid-June through early July during the rainy season, approximately 3,000 hydrangeas color the grounds. Blue, purple, and pink hydrangeas can be enjoyed at the sides of the ascending corridor and around the main hall.
The contrast between rain-wet hydrangeas and the red-lacquered ascending corridor creates a refined, atmospheric quality that attracts many photography enthusiasts. The “Ajisai Festival” is also held, allowing visitors to savor the unique beauty of Hase-dera during rainy season.
Autumn | Spectacular Autumn Foliage
From late October through early December, Hase-dera attracts many tourists as a premier autumn foliage site. Approximately 3,000 trees including Japanese maples, maples, and ginkgos turn red and yellow, dyeing the entire grounds in autumn colors.
In particular, the autumn foliage vista viewed from the main hall stage is magnificent, ranked among the “Top 10 Autumn Foliage Sites in the Kansai Region.” Photography spots abound, including foliage seen while ascending the corridor and the five-story pagoda combined with foliage.
During night special viewings, illumination is provided during the “Autumn Foliage Festival,” allowing visitors to enjoy the fantastical nighttime foliage.
Winter | Winter Peonies and Snowy Landscapes
During winter at Hase-dera, winter peonies bloom from late December through early February. Winter peonies blooming within straw protective wraps are a winter tradition enchanting many visitors.
Additionally, Hase-dera is exceptionally beautiful when snow falls. The ascending corridor, main hall, and five-story pagoda covered in white snow create a landscape like an ink painting, serene and quiet. On snowy days, fewer visitors arrive, allowing peaceful worship in a quiet atmosphere.
Annual Events | Hase-dera’s Major Rituals and Festivals
Shunie (Water-Fetching Ceremony)
The Shunie held from March 1-14 is one of Hase-dera’s important rituals. Confessing sins before the main object of worship, the Eleven-Faced Kannon, and praying for national peace and bumper harvests. Like Todai-ji Temple’s water-fetching ceremony in Nara, this is a traditional event continuing since ancient times.
Spring Special Temple Treasure Exhibition
From March 1 through May 31, precious temple treasures held by Hase-dera are publicly displayed. Buddhist statues, paintings, calligraphy, and crafts—rarely seen cultural properties—offer a valuable viewing opportunity.
Main Object of Worship Great Kannon Spring Special Viewing
From March 1 through June 30, special viewings allowing direct contact with the main object of worship, the Eleven-Faced Kannon standing statue’s feet, are held. Many worshippers visit this valuable experience providing a direct connection with the Kannon.
Peony Festival
Held from mid-April through early May, the Peony Festival is Hase-dera’s largest event. Various activities occur amid approximately 7,000 blooming peonies. The grounds overflow with tourists and festive atmosphere during this period.
Hydrangea Festival
Held from mid-June through early July, the Ajisai (Hydrangea) Festival sees approximately 3,000 hydrangeas coloring the grounds. Visitors can savor the refined atmosphere unique to the rainy season.
Main Object of Worship Great Kannon Autumn Special Viewing
From October 1 through December 1, as in spring, special viewings allowing contact with the main object of worship’s feet are held. Visitors can experience a special connection with the Kannon during the beautiful autumn foliage season.
Autumn Foliage Festival
Held from late October through early December, the Autumn Foliage Festival features special events including foliage illumination. Visitors can enjoy the fantastical autumn foliage scenery differing from daytime views.
New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing
On December 31, New Year’s Eve, general worshippers can also ring the bell. In the solemn atmosphere of welcoming the new year, visitors expel the past year’s afflictions and offer prayers for the coming year.
Viewing Information | Rates, Hours, and Access
Viewing Hours
Hase-dera’s viewing hours vary seasonally.
- April-September: 8:30 AM-5:00 PM
- October-November, March: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
- December-February: 9:00 AM-4:30 PM
During special viewings or illumination periods, hours may be extended. Current information is recommended from the official website.
Viewing Fees
- Adults (junior high school and above): 500 yen
- Elementary school students: 250 yen
- Persons with disability certificates: 250 yen (one caregiver free)
Additional fees may apply during special viewing periods.
Access Methods
By Train
- Get off at Hase-dera Station on the Kintetsu Osaka Line, approximately 15-minute walk (approximately 1.2 km)
- From Sakurai Station on the Kintetsu Osaka Line or JR Sakurai Line, take Nara Kotsu Bus to “Hase-dera Sando-guchi” stop, approximately 10-minute walk
The path from Hase-dera Station to the temple becomes a temple approach through the Hatsuse town gate, lined with souvenir shops and restaurants. Leisurely strolling through is also recommended.
By Car
- Approximately 40 minutes via National Route 169 from “Tenri IC” on the Nishi-Meihan Expressway
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Hari IC” on the Meihan National Road via National Routes 369 and 165
The parking lot on the grounds accommodates 70 vehicles (fee: 500 yen for ordinary vehicles). During peony and autumn foliage seasons, congestion is heavy, making public transportation use recommended.
Nearby Attractions
When visiting Hase-dera, combining visits to nearby attractions is recommended.
Muroo-ji Temple: Approximately 30 minutes by car from Hase-dera, the head temple of the Shingon sect Muroo-ji school. Known as a women’s Mount Koya, it features a national treasure five-story pagoda and beautiful nature.
Abe Monju-in: A Buddhist temple of the Huayan school in Sakurai City and one of Japan’s three Monju temples. Famous for its giant Monju Bodhisattva statue.
Tanzan Shrine: Located at Takao peak in Sakurai City, this shrine is known as an autumn foliage site. Its thirteen-story pagoda is distinctive.
Omiwa Shrine: One of Japan’s oldest shrines, worshipping Mount Miwa as its enshrined deity. Popular as a power spot.
Ways to Spend Time at Hase-dera | Recommended Model Courses
Half-Day Course (approximately 2-3 hours)
- Niomon Gate (10 minutes): View the imposing guardian king statues
- Ascending Corridor (20 minutes): Slowly climb the 399 steps while enjoying seasonal flowers
- Main Hall (40 minutes): Worship the main object of worship, enjoy the stage views
- Five-Story Pagoda Area (20 minutes): Photograph the pagoda and surrounding scenery
- Abbots’ Quarters (30 minutes): Walk the garden and appreciate seasonal flowers
- Path Exploration (30 minutes): Shop for souvenirs or dine in the temple approach town
Full-Day Course (approximately 5-6 hours)
In addition to the half-day course:
- Sutra Copying/Buddha Figure Copying Experience (60 minutes): Peacefully experience sutra copying or Buddha figure copying in the main hall
- Treasure Museum Viewing (30 minutes): During special viewing periods, appreciate rare temple treasures
- Nearby Temple and Shrine Pilgrimage (120 minutes): Visit nearby attractions including Muroo-ji Temple and Omiwa Shrine
Etiquette and Manners for Worshipping at Hase-dera
Worship Procedures
As a Shingon sect temple, Hase-dera follows basic Buddhist temple worship procedures.
- Bow once at the Niomon Gate before entering the grounds
- Purify hands and mouth at the water basin
- In the main hall, quietly bow with palms together and worship with sincerity
- Photography is permitted only in designated areas (interior sanctuary photography prohibited)
- Maintain quiet, avoiding loud speech
Clothing and Belongings
With 399 steps in the ascending corridor, comfortable walking shoes and flexible clothing are recommended. Women especially should avoid heels or sandals.
Summer has intense sunlight, making hats, umbrellas, and beverages advisable. Winter brings mountain-area cold, requiring thorough cold-weather preparation.
Photography Tips
While Hase-dera offers excellent photography opportunities, several guidelines apply.
- Interior sanctuary photography is prohibited
- Be considerate of other worshippers
- Avoid tripod use during crowded times
- Be careful not to damage flowers
Recommended photography spots:
- The ascending corridor combined with seasonal flowers
- Vistas from the main hall stage
- Five-story pagoda with cherry blossoms or autumn foliage
- Views of the grounds from the Niomon Gate
Hase-dera’s Calligraphic Seals and Amulets
Calligraphic Seals
Multiple calligraphic seals can be obtained at Hase-dera.
- Main object of worship “Great Kannon” seal (Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites, Number Eight)
- Founding Hall seal
- Limited-period special viewing seals
Seals are obtained at the main hall sutra-copying office. Bring your seal book or purchase an original Hase-dera seal book.
For Thirty-Three Kannon pilgrimage route followers, Hase-dera is an important numbered temple.
Amulets and Distributed Items
Various amulets and distributed items are available at Hase-dera.
- Kannon amulets: For misfortune prevention, fortune increase, health prayers, etc.
- Relationship amulets: Popular with those praying for romantic fulfillment
- Flower amulets: Amulets featuring flowers characteristic of Hase-dera
- Religious images: Depictions of the main object of worship
- Prayer beads: Formal Shingon sect prayer beads
Especially popular are seasonally limited amulets featuring peonies or cherry blossoms.
Cuisine and Souvenirs Around Hase-dera
Gate-Town Area Cuisine
Along Hase-dera’s temple approach town run numerous long-established restaurants and tea houses.
Grass Mochi and Mugwort Mochi: Hase-dera’s signature grass mochi makes a perfect rest-time snack after worship. Several tea houses serve it, each with distinct characteristics.
Nyumen: Nara specialty hot thin noodles are also popular. Ideal for warming the body after winter worship.
Persimmon Leaf Sushi: Nara’s regional specialty persimmon leaf sushi can be purchased around the temple. It’s a well-received souvenir.
Shojin Cuisine: Local restaurants around Hase-dera offer authentic Buddhist vegetarian cuisine.
Recommended Souvenirs
Hase-dera Specialty Confections: Numerous candies featuring Hase-dera designs are sold. Items featuring peonies or the Kannon are especially popular.
Nara Pickles: Nara’s traditional pickles have good shelf life, ideal as souvenirs.
Handmade Crafts: Shops around the temple approach town sell handmade items and original small goods.
Local Sake: Nara is said to be the birthplace of Japanese sake, making local brewery sake popular souvenirs.
Hase-dera’s Lodging Temples and Nearby Accommodations
Lodging Temple Stays
Hase-dera has a lodging temple where general visitors can stay (reservations required). Experiences unavailable in day-trip visits await, such as participating in early morning services or walking the quiet grounds.
Lodging temples provide Buddhist vegetarian cuisine—simple yet heartfelt meals. Rates begin around 8,000 yen for one night with two meals.
Nearby Accommodations
Inns and private lodgings exist around Hase-dera. Business hotels are also available near Kintetsu Sakurai Station, with options by budget and preference.
Staying in Nara City or Kashihara City and visiting Hase-dera on a day trip is another option.
Hase-dera’s Cultural Properties and Temple Treasures
Hase-dera preserves many valuable cultural properties.
National Treasures
- Main Hall (Kannon Hall): Built 1650, cantilevered architecture
Important Cultural Properties
- Main Object of Worship Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva Standing Statue: Created 1538, height 10.18m
- Ascending Corridors (lower, middle, upper): Built Heian through Muromachi periods
- Connecting Corridor: Built Muromachi period
- Bell Tower: Built 1667
- Sanbyakuyosha Shrine Main Hall: Built Muromachi period
- Copper Plate Lotus Sutra Diagram: Hakuho period, Japan’s oldest copper plate Buddhist art
- Lotus Sutra: Heian period sutra copy
Some cultural properties are displayed during special viewing periods.
Legends and Anecdotes Related to Hase-dera
The High Priest Tokudo and the Legend of King Enma
High priest Tokudo, the founder of Hase-dera, features in a fascinating legend regarding the founding of the Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites.
When Tokudo fell into a death-like state from illness, he met King Enma, who commanded him to “establish thirty-three Kannon pilgrimage sites to save people.” Upon revival, Tokudo received thirty-three treasure seals and established the Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites.
However, this was initially not accepted by the people, and Tokudo buried the treasure seals near Hase-dera at Hokki-in. Approximately 270 years later, Emperor Kazan unearthed these seals, and the Thirty-Three Kannon pilgrimage became formally established, as legend relates.
The Tale of Genji and Hase-dera
In “The Tale of Genji’s” “Tamakazura” chapter, the character Tamakazura makes a pilgrimage to Hase-dera. Having lost her mother and searching for her missing father (daughter of Yugao and the Middle Counselor), Tamakazura visits Hase-dera to pray to the Kannon.
This narrative reveals that during the Heian period, Hase-dera was widely known among nobility as a Kannon worship center.
Pillow Book References to Hase-dera
Sei Shonagon’s “Pillow Book” also records descriptions of pilgrimage to Hase-dera. In the “Temples” section, it states “Hase-dera is most trustworthy,” expressing the depth of Kannon faith.
Conclusion | Fully Enjoying Hase-dera’s Appeal
Hase-dera in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, with over 1,300 years of history, serves as the “Temple of Flowers,” offering beautiful seasonal flowers throughout the year and a place of solemn Kannon worship.
From spring cherry blossoms and peonies, early summer rhododendrons and azaleas, rainy season hydrangeas, autumn foliage, to winter peonies, the temple merits visits throughout the year. Especially during peony and autumn foliage seasons, its beauty captivates countless worshippers.
The experience of climbing the 399-step ascending corridor, worshipping Japan’s largest Eleven-Faced Kannon standing statue in the national treasure main hall, will leave deep impressions on your heart. At this historic pilgrimage site appearing in classical literature, one simultaneously experiences history, culture, and natural beauty.
When visiting Hase-dera, allowing ample time for unhurried ground exploration is recommended. Appreciate seasonal flowers, place hands together before the Kannon, enjoy views from the ascending corridor, and savor dining and souvenir shopping in the temple approach town. Such an enriching day awaits at Hase-dera.
By all means, when visiting Nara, stop by Hase-dera, the “Temple of Flowers.” A peaceful time awaits, enfolded by flowers of the four seasons and the Kannon’s compassion.
