Hasedera Temple
A historic 8th-century temple in a valley, famed for its 10m Kannon statue and serene bamboo grove.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Hasedera Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 8th-century temple in a valley, famed for its 10m Kannon statue and serene bamboo grove.
"Experience the beauty of the temple and surrounding environment, a must-see in Nara."
🚶♀️ Follow Signs, Not Apps
Smartphone maps can lead you astray; trust the street signs for a safer route.
🌸 Hydrangea Season Beauty
While beautiful, the famed hydrangeas might be in curated arrangements rather than natural fields.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Kannon Statue
Main Hall
Marvel at the 10-meter-high, 1500-year-old Bodhisattva statue, an archetype of its kind.
Serene Bamboo Grove
Path to the left of the entrance
Wander through a peaceful bamboo forest, a tranquil escape offering beautiful photo opportunities.
Valley Views and Gardens
Temple grounds
Experience breathtaking views from this temple nestled in a valley, surrounded by lush greenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Navigating to Hasedera Temple
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Follow Signs, Not Apps
Smartphone maps can lead you astray; trust the street signs for a safer route.
🌸 Hydrangea Season Beauty
While beautiful, the famed hydrangeas might be in curated arrangements rather than natural fields.
It's fairly well known, but Kamakura is one of my favorite cities. I keep coming back. Pictured is Hasedera, a 1300 year old temple
Kamakura half day trip
💰 Entrance Fee Options
Standard entry is ¥500, with an additional fee for the chapel area.
🌿 Free Bamboo Grove Access
The bamboo grove can be accessed via the left path from the entrance without an extra ticket.
Best temples in Kamakura
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Follow Signs, Not Apps
Smartphone maps can lead you astray; trust the street signs for a safer route.
🌸 Hydrangea Season Beauty
While beautiful, the famed hydrangeas might be in curated arrangements rather than natural fields.
💰 Entrance Fee Options
Standard entry is ¥500, with an additional fee for the chapel area.
🌿 Free Bamboo Grove Access
The bamboo grove can be accessed via the left path from the entrance without an extra ticket.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hasedera Temple is lauded for its historical significance, particularly the impressive Great Kannon statue, and its beautiful natural setting with a serene bamboo grove. Visitors appreciate the tranquil atmosphere, especially when avoiding peak times, and the unique valley views. However, some find the reliance on physical signage over digital maps inconvenient, and the uphill terrain can be challenging for some.
"Described as the most beautiful temple in Tale of Genji's time, about 1000 years ago, this temple is situated in a valley slightly off from both Nara and Kyoto. The main statue is a 10 m high bodhisattva that was made before 1500 that had since become an archetype of its own. It is well worth a trip to experience the beauty of the temple and surrounding environment."
Andre Chan
"Often visited this temple since I was a little. Never thought much about it then…. But learning history helped me to see the significance of this temple.
Do not follow smartphone map apps (Apple/Google) as their algorithms based routing is harsh and dangerous (exposing to traffic) route.
Follow the signs you see on the street instead."
Hideki
"There was a beautiful flower arrangement on the starcase, which doesn't allow people to walk in. Visitors can line up to take photos. The only reason I gave 4 stars is that I would prefer natural fields of hydrangea, which I have seen in some other places."
Hungry Hippo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hasedera Temple is located slightly off the beaten path from Nara. While smartphone maps can be unreliable and even dangerous, following the street signs is recommended. The walk from the train station offers a glimpse into local life and communities.
Yes, Hasedera Temple can be part of a day trip from Tokyo, though it's a significant journey. It's often combined with other Kamakura attractions.
The most reliable way is to follow the physical signs posted throughout the area, as digital maps have been known to provide hazardous routes.
The walk can be a bit long and involves uphill sections with stairs and slopes, but it allows you to see local houses and the community.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The standard entrance fee is ¥500. There's an additional fee of ¥1000+ if you wish to enter the chapel area.
Yes, you can access the beautiful bamboo groves by taking the left side of the entrance path, which does not require a separate ticket.
Besides the general admission, there's an option to pay more for access to the chapel area, which offers a more in-depth experience.
Advance booking is generally not required for Hasedera Temple. Tickets can be purchased upon arrival.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check the official website or local listings before your visit. Generally, it opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon.
📸 📸 Photography
The temple grounds offer stunning views, especially from the valley overlooking the surroundings. The bamboo grove and the Great Kannon statue are also popular photo spots.
Photography is generally allowed in most outdoor areas. However, photography inside certain sacred halls or chapels might be restricted. Always look for signage.
Absolutely! The combination of the serene gardens, the impressive Kannon statue, and the tranquil bamboo forest makes Hasedera Temple highly photogenic and perfect for Instagram.
There's a beautiful flower arrangement on the staircase that visitors can line up to photograph. Be patient and respectful of others waiting.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The most significant attraction is the towering 10-meter-high Bodhisattva statue, a masterpiece created before 1500.
Yes, expect uphill walking with many stairs and slopes as the temple is situated in a valley. Wear comfortable shoes.
This rebuilt 8th-century temple is the primary temple for the Buzan sect of Shingon Buddhism and was described as the most beautiful temple in Tale of Genji's time.
Restroom facilities are typically available within the temple grounds for visitor convenience.
Take your time to explore the grounds, appreciate the Kannon statue, wander through the bamboo grove, and enjoy the panoramic views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to make the experience more manageable with children. The temple's serene atmosphere, combined with the visual beauty, can provide a calming yet enriching outing. Pack snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for the inclines.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Focus on the Great Kannon statue for a profound spiritual encounter and lose yourself in the quiet beauty of the bamboo grove. The temple's location, slightly off the main tourist paths, often means fewer crowds, enhancing the sense of personal discovery and calm.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Great Kannon
This statue is not just a religious icon but also a testament to the temple's enduring legacy. Its presence contributes significantly to the temple's reputation as a place of spiritual importance and historical resonance, drawing visitors who seek to connect with Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Navigating Hasedera Temple: Tips from Visitors
Furthermore, be prepared for a bit of a physical journey. The temple is situated in a valley, meaning there will be uphill walking, stairs, and slopes involved. Comfortable footwear is highly recommended. However, this walk also offers the chance to observe local houses and the community, adding an authentic touch to your experience.
For those seeking a more tranquil experience, arriving early in the morning or visiting on a weekday is strongly advised. This strategy helps in avoiding the peak crowds, allowing for a more peaceful exploration of the temple grounds and better opportunities for photography.
Hasedera Temple's Natural Beauty
A particular highlight for many is the bamboo grove. Accessed via a path to the left of the entrance, this area provides a tranquil and photogenic experience. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in the calming presence of towering bamboo stalks. Some visitors even note that this path can be accessed without purchasing an additional ticket, making it a delightful free exploration.
While the temple is famous for its historical and religious significance, its natural landscapes, including the valley views and the bamboo forest, contribute significantly to its overall appeal. It's a destination that offers both spiritual reflection and a connection with nature's tranquility.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit