Hasedera — Attraction in Kamakura

Hasedera, located in the ancient city of Kamakura, is a historic temple officially named "Kaikōzan Jishōin Hasedera". It is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful gardens, seasonal natural scenery, and numerous important cultural properties.

Hasedera is especially famous for its devotion to Kannon (the goddess of mercy), and its main object of worship is the "Eleven-headed Kannon Bodhisattva". This Kannon statue is one of the largest in Japan, standing approximately 9.18 meters tall, and is one of the largest wooden statues in the country.

Hasedera is also known as the "Temple of Flowers," especially for the hydrangeas that bloom during the rainy season. From the hill within the temple grounds, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Kamakura city and the ocean, which is particularly impressive on a clear day.

In addition, the temple has a cave where Benzaiten and the Sixteen Disciples are enshrined. Many Jizo Bodhisattva statues found throughout the temple grounds are symbolic of memorial services for unborn children. Jizo Bodhisattva is believed to protect and guide the souls of deceased children, and parents offer prayers with their heartfelt wishes to these statues.

Hasedera is easily accessible from Kamakura Station. After getting off at "Kamakura Station" on the JR Yokosuka Line, visitors can transfer to the Enoshima Electric Railway and walk to "Hase Station" in about 5 minutes.

Nearby are other famous Kamakura sights such as the Great Buddha of Kamakura (Kōtoku-in), Goryo Shrine, and Gokuraku-ji, all within walking distance for a...

Hase-dera Temple is one of the most beautiful temples I’ve ever visited, and it left a lasting impression on me. It’s a picture-perfect destination that truly heightens your senses and makes for an incredibly spiritual journey.

The temple complex is rich with features that make it unique. There’s a serene cave with Buddha carvings, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. The landscape gardens, complete with tranquil water features and blooming flowers, are impeccably designed, offering a peaceful place to reflect and relax. The temple’s traditional architecture is stunning, with intricate details that showcase the artistry of ancient Japan.

One of the highlights is the hillside location, which provides breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and Sagami Bay. On a clear day, it’s a perfect spot to pause and take it all in. The temple is also home to a massive wooden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, which is awe-inspiring in its craftsmanship and scale.

What I love most about Hase-dera is how it blends natural beauty with spiritual tranquility. Every corner of the temple invites reflection, whether it’s the rows of Jizo statues or the peaceful pathways lined with hydrangeas.

This was easily one of my favorite temple visits in the world. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Kamakura and an experience I’d highly recommend to travelers seeking both cultural depth and...

Hasedera Temple is one of the very famous temples in Kamakura area and known as the temple of 9 meter-high Kannon statue (the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy) and the flower of hydrangea. On the top of the temple site, there are Amida-do Hall, Kannon-do Hall, and Daikoku-do Hall from the right to left side.  In Kannon-do Hall, the magnificent statue of Hase Kannon is enshrined. Gold leaf is applied to the statue, and it has eleven heads in addition to its main one.  Photographing is not allowed. In the Daikoku-do Hall, Daikoku deity is housed. Daikoku deity is one of the seven Japanese deities of Fortune, and he is the deity of wealth and household. You can touch this statue, touch him and good luck will come to you! Buddha's foot mark stone is in front of Daikoku-do Hall. The observation platform is more ahead of Daikoku-do Hall and you can overlook the ocean. At the back side of the halls, hydrangea blooms very beautiful in June even it is rainy season. Let's go to the lower level and go inside of Benten-kutsu cave.  According to the legend, a famous priest, Kobo Daishi had Buddhism training in this cave.  Benzaiten (sea female deity of the seven Japanese deities of Fortune) and 16 children are chiseled out of the rock walls. Going more inside, many candles are offered to the deity in the solemn atmosphere.  Hasedera Temple is the MUST in...