Hasedera Temple (Kamakura, Kanagawa) Complete Guide | Highlights, History, Access, Seasonal Flowers
Hasedera Temple (長谷寺), located in Hase, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is an ancient temple long cherished under the name “Hase Kannon.” With a wooden Kannon statue that is among the largest in Japan as its principal image, and famous as a “flower temple” where blossoms bloom throughout the four seasons, it attracts numerous pilgrims and tourists year-round. This article provides a comprehensive introduction to the charm of this temple, one of Kamakura’s representative temples, covering everything from its history and highlights to access methods and visiting information.
About Hasedera Temple | Official Name and Basic Information
The official name of Hasedera Temple is “Kaikosan Jishouin Hasedera (海光山慈照院長谷寺),” with the mountain name being Kaikosan and the院 name being Jishouin. It operates as an independent temple of the Jodo sect, and is also known as the fourth temple in the Bando Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage.
The temple grounds are situated on a high plateau in Hase, Kamakura, with an excellent location overlooking Sagami Bay. The common name “Hase Kannon” derives from the faith in the principal image, the eleven-faced Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, and is affectionately used by both locals and tourists.
The temple grounds are vast, with diverse attractions scattered throughout, including the main hall, Kannon Museum, observation platform, gardens, and the hydrangea path. While maintaining a long history stretching back to the Kamakura period, modern facilities have also been established, creating a space where tradition and modernity harmonize.
History of Hasedera Temple | Avalokitesvara Faith from the Nara Period
Origins and Legend of Its Founding
The founding of Hasedera Temple traces back to a fascinating legend from the Nara period. In Yoro 5 (721 CE), the Buddhist priest Tokudo carved two eleven-faced Avalokitesvara statues from a single giant camphor tree in Yamato Province (present-day Nara Prefecture). One statue was installed as the principal image at Hasedera Temple in Yamato (present-day Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture), while the other was said to be “set to sea in search of lands of karmic connection.”
This statue is believed to have washed ashore at Nagai Inlet in Sagami Province (present-day Yokosuka City, Kanagawa) fifteen years later in Tenpyo 8 (736 CE). Fujiwara no Fusa, the feudal lord of the Kamakura district at that time, brought the sacred wooden Kannon statue to Kamakura, and Hasedera Temple was founded with Priest Tokudo as the founding abbot.
This legend demonstrates the deep bond between the Hasedera temples in Nara and Kamakura, while symbolically expressing how Avalokitesvara faith spread across the sea.
Development from the Kamakura to Muromachi Periods
With the establishment of the Kamakura shogunate, Hasedera Temple developed under the patronage of the warrior government. It became a renowned pilgrimage site, gathering faith from the Minamoto and Hojo families and other warrior clans, attracting many pilgrims.
During the Muromachi period, it received protection from the Ashikaga clan, and the main hall was reconstructed with major repairs to the principal image. The foundations of the present-day temple were formed during this period, and the temple’s position as an Avalokitesvara pilgrimage site was firmly established. Its role as the fourth temple in the Bando Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage increased in importance around this time.
Changes from the Edo Period Onward
During the Edo period, Avalokitesvara faith spread among commoners, and Hasedera Temple became widely loved as “Hase Kannon.” The number of pilgrims from Edo increased, making it an important hub of Kamakura tourism.
Despite being affected by the Meiji-era Buddhist suppression movements, Hasedera Temple continued to exist as a place of faith, and through the Showa and Heisei periods until the present day, it has preserved its history and tradition. In recent years, it has also focused on the preservation and public presentation of cultural properties, such as the opening of the Kannon Museum.
Principal Image | Japan’s Largest Wooden Eleven-Faced Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva Statue
The greatest highlight of Hasedera Temple is the eleven-faced Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva statue enshrined in the main hall. This statue, standing 9.18 meters tall, is known as one of Japan’s largest wooden Buddhist sculptures, and while not designated as an Important Cultural Property, it is an extremely precious work in terms of both scale and artistic merit.
Characteristics of the Kannon Statue
The principal image is a wooden sculpture carved from a single camphor tree, holding a ringed staff (shakujo) in the right hand and a water vessel (suibyō) in the left hand in a distinctive pose. The eleven-faced Kannon, with eleven faces on top of the head, is one form of the Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva believed to be able to watch over all directions.
The majestic figure covered in gold leaf deeply moves all who see it. Particularly in the dimly lit space inside the main hall, the appearance of the Kannon statue floating in the atmosphere is enveloped in a mysterious mood, with many pilgrims seen quietly clasping their hands in prayer.
Beyond the sheer size of the statue, the meticulous carving of details such as garment patterns and ornaments, and the serene yet dignified expression, all demonstrate remarkable technical skill—a masterpiece indeed.
Avalokitesvara Faith and Blessings
The eleven-faced Kannon has long been worshipped as a Buddha bringing worldly benefits. The Kannon at Hasedera is particularly said to bestow blessings for healing from illness, warding off calamities, fulfilling romantic relationships, bearing children, and safe childbirth, attracting people with various wishes.
At the main hall, visitors can offer quiet prayers before the Kannon, and sutra copying and Buddha painting experiences are also available. Small jizō bodhisattvas for good relationships are enshrined at the feet of the Kannon statue, and this too is a popular pilgrimage spot.
Highlights of the Temple Grounds | Diverse and Multifaceted Architectural Arrangement
Mountain Gate and Lower Temple Grounds
The pilgrimage at Hasedera begins with an atmospheric mountain gate. Upon passing through, visitors enter the area known as the lower temple grounds. Here is the reception area, where visitors pay the admission fee before beginning their exploration of the grounds.
The lower temple grounds feature the Hall of Jizō, Benzaiten Hall, bell tower, and other structures. The Benzaiten Hall in particular is a beautifully lacquered red shrine dedicated to Benzaiten, where visitors can view the Benzaiten statue enshrined within a cave. Countless small Benzaiten statues are lined up in this cave, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Main Hall and Upper Temple Grounds
Ascending the stairs into the upper temple grounds, visitors reach the center of Hasedera Temple—the main hall. Also called the Kannon Hall, it houses the principal image, the eleven-faced Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva statue. Visitors remove their shoes inside the hall to pay respect, allowing them to view the Kannon statue up close.
Surrounding the main hall are structures such as the Amida Hall and Daikoku Hall, each enshrining different Buddhist statues. The Amida Hall houses the Amida Buddha statue, while the Daikoku Hall enshrines Daikoku, known as the deity of prosperity and success.
Observation Terrace with Panoramic Views
The observation terrace, located at the highest point of the upper temple grounds, is a must-visit spot for those coming to Hasedera. From here, visitors can see the streetscape of Kamakura and Sagami Bay, and on clear days, the Miura Peninsula and Izu Peninsula come into view.
The scenery at dusk is particularly special, offering a beautiful view of the sunset over the sea and the lights of Kamakura. Benches are provided at the observation terrace where visitors can rest and leisurely take in the spectacular scenery.
Sutra Repository and Revolving Sutra Case
The temple grounds feature a sutra repository containing a revolving sutra case (rinzō). It is believed that rotating this case once grants the same merit as reading through all the scriptures, and many pilgrims spin it.
Sutra-Copying Space and Experience Facilities
Hasedera Temple offers facilities for sutra copying (shakyō) and Buddha painting (shabutsu) experiences. Taking time to calm the mind and brush in a quiet space provides a valuable experience removed from the busy modern world. Copied scriptures can be offered at the main hall or taken home.
Kannon Museum | Exhibition of Hasedera’s Treasures
The Kannon Museum, which opened in 2015, is a facility displaying precious cultural properties held by Hasedera Temple. Within its modern architecture, Buddhist statues, paintings, calligraphy, and craft works are exhibited—treasures that tell the long history of Hasedera Temple.
Main Exhibition Contents
The permanent exhibition allows visitors to learn in detail about the history of eleven-faced Avalokitesvara faith and the origins of Hasedera Temple. Valuable cultural properties from the Kamakura to Muromachi periods, such as suspended Buddha images (kakebotoke) and ancient documents, are also displayed.
Particularly noteworthy is the exhibition explaining the creation process and structure of the principal eleven-faced Avalokitesvara statue. Using life-size models and video, visitors can understand how Japan’s largest wooden Buddha was created.
Special Exhibitions and Exhibitions
The Kannon Museum hosts several special and thematic exhibitions each year, featuring displays coordinated with the seasons and annual events, or collaborative exhibitions with other temples, ensuring fresh discoveries with each visit.
A museum shop is also attached, where visitors can purchase Hasedera-original goods and publications.
Seasonal Flowers | Hasedera Known as the “Flower Temple”
Hasedera is widely known as the “flower temple,” where various flowers bloom throughout the year. Presenting different appearances with each season, Hasedera offers new discoveries with each visit.
Spring Flowers (March to May)
Spring at Hasedera begins with plum blossoms. From late February to early March, the plum trees on the grounds display delicate flowers. Following this comes cherry blossom season, with Somei Yoshino and weeping cherry blossoms brightening the temple.
In April, peonies (botan) reach their peak bloom. Known as the “king of flowers” for their magnificent blooms, peonies captivate many pilgrims. Hasedera has hundreds of peony plants, offering flowers in red, white, pink, and yellow.
May brings rhododendrons and azaleas, marking the end of spring.
Hydrangea Season During Rainy Season (Late May to Early July)
The most famous flowers at Hasedera are undoubtedly hydrangeas. From late May to early July during the rainy season, over 40 varieties totaling 2,500 hydrangea plants bloom along the “hydrangea path,” a scenic walking trail on the grounds.
The hydrangea path is a walking route built on a slope, with hydrangeas of various colors—blue, purple, pink, and white—planted in tiered formations. From the walking path, visitors can view Sagami Bay and the Kamakura streetscape, with the hydrangeas and blue sea creating a uniquely Hasedera view.
During peak hydrangea season, Hasedera may distribute numbered tickets due to crowding. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is recommended. Rain-wet hydrangeas also possess a special charm, allowing enjoyment of rainy season beauty unique to this time.
Summer to Autumn Flowers (July to November)
Summer brings crape myrtles and oleanders, while autumn displays spider lilies and Japanese anemones. From September to October, bush clover flowers also reach their prime.
Autumn foliage is also remarkable, with Japanese maples and ginkgos beautifully coloring from late November to early December. The harmony of autumn leaves and ancient temple buildings represents one of Kamakura’s signature autumn scenes.
Winter Flowers (December to February)
Winter at Hasedera features fewer flowers than other seasons, but camellias, narcissus, and wintersweet still add color to the grounds. The special atmosphere of worshipping at Hasedera in winter’s clear air offers a unique tranquility.
During New Year, decorations and gate ornaments are displayed, allowing visitors to enjoy the atmosphere of early spring.
Garden | Strolling Through a Circulating Japanese Garden
The temple grounds feature a beautifully maintained Japanese garden. Centered on a pond and designed as a circulating garden, it creates an atmospheric space with plants, stone arrangements, and lanterns positioned throughout the seasons.
Walking paths are laid throughout the garden, allowing leisurely enjoyment of the garden’s beauty. Koi swim in the pond, and trees reflected on the water’s surface present a picturesque scene.
A tea house sits in one corner of the garden where tea ceremonies are occasionally held during special events. Benches are also provided where visitors can quietly rest while enjoying the garden view.
Annual Events | Major Religious Services and Events at Hasedera
Throughout the year, Hasedera conducts various annual events and religious services.
New Year Events
From New Year’s Day through the third day, the temple is crowded with first-visit pilgrims. Special prayers and services are held, with people visiting to pray for health and safety throughout the year.
Setsubun Festival (February)
During February’s Setsubun festival, the Setsubun ceremony is conducted, with bean-scattering rituals and other events.
Spring Equinox Memorial Service (March)
During the spring equinox period centered on the vernal equinox, services honoring ancestors are held.
Buddha’s Birthday Ceremony (April 8th)
The Buddha’s Birthday ceremony (Hanamatsuri) celebrates Shakyamuni’s birth with the ritual of pouring sweet tea over the statue of the newborn Buddha.
Forty-Six Thousand Days (August 10th)
August 10th, known as “Shigoman Roku Sen Nichi” (forty-six thousand days), is Kannon’s special day. It is said that visiting on this day grants the merit of forty-six thousand days of practice. Special services are held, drawing many pilgrims.
Autumn Equinox Memorial Service (September)
During the autumn equinox period centered on the autumnal equinox, ancestor memorial services are held similarly to spring.
New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing (December 31st)
On New Year’s Eve night, the bell is rung to usher in the new year. General visitors can also ring the bell.
Beyond these events, monthly services and special events are regularly held. Details are recommended to be confirmed on Hasedera’s official website.
Restaurants and Cafes | Meals and Rest Within the Temple Grounds
The temple grounds feature restaurants and cafes where visitors can rest.
Kaiko-an
Located near the observation terrace, Kaiko-an is a dining establishment with spectacular views of Sagami Bay. Visitors can enjoy vegetarian curry, seasonal set meals, and confections based on Buddhist cuisine.
Particularly popular is Hasedera’s original curry, featuring a healthy vegetable-rich flavor. Large windows offer panoramic views of Kamakura’s sea and streetscape, creating a luxurious experience of dining while enjoying the spectacular view.
Souvenir Shop
A gift shop on the grounds sells Hasedera-original charms, sacred stamp books, postcards, sweets, and more. Particularly popular are goods featuring the Hasedera Kannon and products designed with seasonal flowers.
Local Kamakura specialties and crafted items are also stocked, making them ideal as souvenirs or gifts.
Access Methods | How to Get There by Train and Bus
Access by Train
The most common way to access Hasedera is by the Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden).
About 5 minutes’ walk from Enoden’s “Hase Station”
From Hase Station, head northwest (right) from the station. Walking through residential streets, you’ll see signs for Hasedera. Following the directions, you’ll reach the temple’s mountain gate in about five minutes.
Access from Major Stations
- From JR Yokosuka Line or Shonan-Shinjuku Line “Kamakura Station,” transfer to Enoden; about 5 minutes to Hase Station
- From Odakyu Enoshima Line “Fujisawa Station,” transfer to Enoden; about 20 minutes to Hase Station
The Enoden is a popular route for Kamakura tourism, with retro trains and coastal scenery making the journey itself enjoyable as part of your tour.
Access by Bus
Buses are also available from JR Kamakura Station.
From Kamakura Station East Exit Bus Terminal
- Board Kehin Kyuko Bus heading to “Hase Kannon,” approximately 10 minutes
- Exit at “Hase Kannon” bus stop, about 3 minutes’ walk
Buses have fewer daily services than the train, so checking the schedule in advance is recommended.
Access by Car and Parking
For those driving, it takes about 30 minutes from the Yokohama-Yokosuka Expressway’s “Asahina IC.” However, the roads around Hasedera are narrow, and traffic congestion is common during tourist season, making public transportation recommended.
Hasedera has its own parking lot but with limited capacity (approximately 30 vehicles), often filling during hydrangea season and weekends. Nearby coin parking is available but similarly congested.
Visiting Information | Hours, Admission Fee, and Time Needed
Visiting Hours
Hasedera’s visiting hours vary by season.
- March to September: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (temple closes at 5:30 PM)
- October to February: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (temple closes at 5:00 PM)
Final admission is 30 minutes before the closing time. To enjoy the grounds leisurely, arriving more than one hour before closing is recommended.
Admission Fee
- Adults: 400 yen
- Elementary School Children: 200 yen
Admission to the Kannon Museum is included in the admission fee.
Time Required
Allow 1.5 to 2 hours to leisurely explore Hasedera’s grounds. This includes worshipping at the main hall, viewing the Kannon Museum, strolling the hydrangea path, enjoying the view from the observation terrace, and exploring the garden.
During hydrangea season, expect longer times due to congestion. If experiencing sutra-copying or Buddha painting, allocate an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Sacred Stamps
Sacred stamps are available at Hasedera. The stamp office is located near the main hall, with seasonal limited-edition stamps sometimes offered. Sacred stamp books are also sold, with Hasedera-original designs being popular.
Sacred stamps for Hasedera as the fourth temple in the Bando Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage are also available.
Nearby Attractions | Exploring the Hase Area
It is recommended to visit nearby attractions along with Hasedera.
Kōtoku-in (Kamakura Daibutsu)
About 10 minutes’ walk from Hasedera, Kōtoku-in houses the Kamakura Daibutsu (National Treasure), Kamakura’s symbol. The bronze Amida Buddha statue, approximately 11.3 meters tall, is one of Kamakura’s foremost tourist attractions.
Kōsoku-ji Temple
About 5 minutes’ walk from Hasedera, Kōsoku-ji is a small temple known as a flower temple. Spring’s Japanese crabapple and autumn foliage are particularly beautiful, and it offers a peaceful atmosphere for worship.
Amanawakami Shrine
About 5 minutes’ walk from Hase Station, Amanawakami Shrine is said to be Kamakura’s oldest shrine. With connections to both Minamoto no Yoritomo and Hōjō Masako, it is recommended for history enthusiasts.
Yuigahama Beach
Near the Hase area is Yuigahama Beach, one of Shonan’s representative swimming spots. Swimming is available in summer, while other seasons offer seaside walks and cafe breaks.
Gokurakuji and Jōjuin Temples
One station away on the Enoden are Gokurakuji and Jōjuin temples. The view from Jōjuin is particularly spectacular, overlooking Kamakura’s sea.
Pilgrimage Etiquette and Precautions
Clothing
As a religious facility, avoid clothing with excessive skin exposure. The grounds have many stairs and inclines, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is recommended. The hydrangea path particularly has slopes, making high heels inadvisable.
Photography
Photography is permitted in most areas, but certain locations such as inside the main hall prohibit it. Follow posted signage. Also, be considerate of other pilgrims.
Peak Seasons
The hydrangea bloom period (June), fall foliage period (late November to early December), Golden Week, and New Year holidays are particularly crowded. To avoid crowds, visiting on weekday mornings is recommended.
During hydrangea season, admission may be restricted with numbered tickets distributed. Checking the official website for crowd information beforehand is advised.
Pets
Pets cannot enter Hasedera (except service animals such as guide dogs).
Fully Enjoying Hasedera’s Appeal
Hasedera Temple in Hase, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, boasts diverse attractions including Japan’s largest eleven-faced Avalokitesvara statue, seasonal flowers of remarkable beauty, panoramic views of Sagami Bay, and comprehensive cultural property displays.
Continuing the long history and Avalokitesvara traditions from the Nara period to the present day, with modern facilities also providing comfortable visiting environments for all, this ancient temple known as the “flower temple” and “Hase Kannon” is a must-visit destination when coming to Kamakura.
Presenting different faces with each season, Hasedera offers fresh discoveries with every visit. Spring cherry blossoms and peonies, early summer hydrangeas, autumn foliage, and winter silence—each season possesses its own beauty.
Arriving by Enoden, exiting at Hase Station, and passing through residential streets to enter Hasedera’s gate creates the beginning of a special experience apart from daily life. Clasping hands quietly before the Kannon, gazing at Sagami Bay from the observation terrace, and having one’s heart soothed by seasonal flowers—such enriching moments await at Hasedera.
When visiting Kamakura, by all means visit Hasedera and fully experience its charm.
