A Comprehensive guide to the highlights of Hasedera Temple in Kamakura

Hasedera Temple is known as the "Flowers Temple," as flowers bloom in seasons such as spring cherry blossoms, rainy season hydrangeas, and autumn leaves in winter. Moreover, the site is big with one of Buddhas, Ryoenjizo, caves and walkways, etc., Japan's biggest wooden sculptures. Taking your time touring the temple is suggested.

About Hasedera Temple

Hasedera Temple is a historic temple that, according to Tokudo-Jojin's wish, was opened in 736 in Nara Prefecture. There are many flowers in the big site from the foot to the midway up the Kannon-Zan. In the 4 seasons, different flowers bloom and the temple is known as the "Flowers Temple." Particularly in June, which is the season of hydrangea, there are more than 40 types of about 2,500 hydrangeas blooming along the scenic walkway on the slope behind the Kyozo. Many tourists come to visit it. In addition, there is a viewing platform at "Joukeidai" halfway up the Kannon-Zan where you can enjoy the view.

Highlights of Hasedera Temple

Kannon Hall's highlight is the wooden statue of "Eleven-headed Kannon," which is said to be Japan's biggest. It has a height of about 9.18 meters, holding on the correct side a monk employees, which is one of the belongings of Jizo-Bosatsu, and on the left side a vase. It appears that the statue of Kannon faces all directions. Furthermore, flowers in the garden flower in four seasons after another, including early spring summer sweet and plum blossoms, spring cherry blossoms, rainy season hydrangea, and winter crape myrtle. In the "Kannon Museum" under Kannon Bosatsu's theme, "Kannon Zen" teachings are described by the use of exhibitions and videos in an easy-to-understand way (Entrance fee: 300 yuan, 9:00~16:00 may be momentarily closed).

Ryoenjizo in Hasedera Temple

Ryoenjizo is a triad located at secret places in the site. It has gentle expressions and is placed in three locations on the site. If one can find all of them and take photos, it is said that he will be blessed with good fortune. As they are small Jizo with a height of only about 30 cm, you should better look closely at your feet while walking around the temple.

Access to Hasedera Temple

If you use the JR Yokosuka Line, get off at Kamakura Station and change to Enoden bus. Get off at "Hase-Kannon" bus stop after a 6-minute ride. Then walk for about 5 minutes. If you use Enoshima Electric Railway, get off at "Hase" Station and walk for about 5 minutes. 

If you use Odakyu Railway, get off at "Fujisawa" station and change to Enoden. Ride for about 30 minutes and get off at "Hase" station and walk for about 5 minutes.

Spot Information

  • Spot name: Hasedera Temple
  • Street Address: 3-11-2 Hase, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture 248-0016
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi available in some areas
  • Language: English, Chinese, Korean(website)
  • Ticket: 400 yen
  • Opening hours: March~September: 8:00~17:00 (closes at 17:30); October~February: 8:00~16:30 (closes at 17:00)
  • Closing days: None

Index

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