A Detailed Explanation of Hase-dera Temple’s History and Overview

　Table of Contents

1. What Is Hase-dera Temple?
2. The History of Hase-dera Temple
3. Highlights of Hase-dera Temple

Introduction

Located in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, Hase-dera Temple (長谷寺, Hase-dera) is a remarkable place where nature and Buddhist culture come together in perfect harmony. Boasting a history of approximately 1,300 years, it has captivated countless pilgrims as the eighth temple on the Saigoku Sanjūsansho Kannon Pilgrimage route.

Hase-dera Temple is not only a center of Buddhist faith but also a popular tourist destination where visitors can immerse themselves in beautiful natural surroundings and cultural heritage. In this article, we will delve into the temple’s history and main attractions, offering a comprehensive look at the full appeal of this renowned sacred site.

1. What Is Hase-dera Temple? 

Hase-dera Temple (長谷寺, Hase-dera) is the head temple of the Buzan branch of Shingon Buddhism, located in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture. Revered as one of Japan’s most prominent Kannon pilgrimage sites, it serves as the eighth temple on the Saigoku Sanjūsansho Kannon Pilgrimage route, drawing countless pilgrims and tourists. Tracing its origins back more than 1,300 years, Hase-dera Temple is a venerable institution with deep historical roots.

The temple’s founding dates to the Nara period, during the reign of Emperor Tenmu in the late 7th century. According to tradition, a monk named Dōmyō enshrined Kannon Bodhisattva as the principal deity and established the temple complex. It is said that Emperor Tenmu prayed for national peace by installing a large statue of the Eleven-Headed Kannon, an act that contributed to Hase-dera’s growth and prominence.

Situated on a spacious site surrounded by lush natural beauty, Hase-dera’s buildings are arranged along a slope leading from the entrance path into the mountains. One of its most famous features is the Noborirō (登廊), a corridor lined with vermilion pillars that covers approximately 399 stone steps. During spring’s cherry blossom season and autumn’s changing leaves, this structure offers breathtaking views.

Designated a National Treasure, the Main Hall showcases a “stage-style” architectural design. From here, visitors can take in panoramic views of the temple grounds, mesmerizing in every season. The temple’s principal icon is a 10-meter-tall wooden statue of the Eleven-Headed Kannon, recognized as one of Japan’s largest Buddhist statues. This Kannon image also symbolizes Hase-dera Temple’s identity as the “Temple of Flowers.”

Throughout the year, Hase-dera Temple is adorned with various blooming flowers, earning it the nickname “Temple of Flowers.” In spring, cherry blossoms and peonies flourish; in summer, hydrangeas; in autumn, vibrant foliage; and in winter, snowy landscapes—all reflecting the harmonious blend of nature and Buddhism. Notably, peonies are a signature of Hase-dera, with over 5,000 peony plants gracing its grounds. The annual “Peony Festival,” held from late April to May, attracts many visitors.

Beloved as a unique space where Japanese Buddhist culture converges with nature, Hase-dera Temple remains a key center of Kannon devotion, providing solace and spiritual fulfillment to those who visit. Its historical significance and captivating scenery also make it a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.

2. The History of Hase-dera Temple 

Hase-dera Temple (長谷寺), located in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, is the head temple of the Buzan branch of Shingon Buddhism. With a history spanning over 1,300 years, it has played a pivotal role in the growth of Japanese Buddhism and culture from ancient times to the modern era. Below is a detailed look at the temple’s major historical milestones.

　1. 686 (Shuchō Gannen): The Origins of Hase-dera 

Image is for illustration purposes. 

The founding of Hase-dera Temple dates back to 686 in the Asuka period. According to the Nihon Shoki, a Buddhist monk named Dōmyō carved an Eleven-Headed Kannon statue to pray for the recovery of Emperor Tenmu from illness, installing it on Mount Hase (初瀬山). This statue became the focal point of Kannon devotion, laying the foundation for the establishment of Hase-dera Temple.

　2. 734 (Tenpyō 6): The Full-Fledged Development of the Temple 

Image is for illustration purposes. 

During the Nara period, the priest Tokudō spearheaded the temple’s further development. It was around this time that the Eleven-Headed Kannon statue was rebuilt as a large-scale principal image. Amid the flourishing Tenpyō culture, Hase-dera Temple became an influential center of Buddhist art and faith, receiving substantial patronage from the imperial court.

　3. 987 (Kanna 3): Designation as a Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage Site 

Image is for illustration purposes. 

In the mid-Heian period, as the Saigoku Sanjūsansho Kannon Pilgrimage was forming, Hase-dera Temple was chosen as the eighth temple on the route. By this time, it was widely recognized as a principal hub of Kannon worship, attracting numerous pilgrims. The temple’s role as a Kannon pilgrimage site continues to this day.

　4. 1671 (Kanbun 11): Rebuilding of the Main Hall 

Image is for illustration purposes. 

Entering the Edo period, Hase-dera Temple faced disasters such as fires but ultimately found support under the fifth Tokugawa shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi. Thanks to this patronage, the Main Hall was rebuilt. This reconstructed Main Hall became the prototype for the present-day structure, designated as an Important Cultural Property. The panoramic view from its stage-style architecture continues to captivate visitors.

　5. 1896 (Meiji 29): Religious Reforms and the Establishment of the Buzan Branch of Shingon Buddhism  

Image is for illustration purposes. 

In the Meiji period, the government’s policy of separating Shinto and Buddhism (shinbutsu bunri) brought sweeping changes to temples across Japan. Hase-dera Temple was no exception. However, it was during this time that the Buzan branch of Shingon Buddhism was founded, with Hase-dera Temple designated as its head temple, ushering in a new era. This development positioned Hase-dera as a vital force in modern Japanese Buddhism, allowing it to continue thriving in a rapidly changing society.

3. Highlights of Hase-dera Temple 

Hase-dera Temple, the head temple of the Buzan branch of Shingon Buddhism in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, is a captivating destination where breathtaking natural beauty meets invaluable cultural heritage. Below are some of the main attractions you won’t want to miss during your visit.

　■ The Main Hall (National Treasure) 

Hase-dera Temple’s Main Hall, reconstructed during the Edo period, is a magnificent wooden structure designated as a National Treasure. Measuring about 30 meters in length, it features the same stage-style design used at Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto. From the stage, you can enjoy sweeping views of the temple grounds throughout the seasons. The cherry blossoms in spring and the colorful foliage in autumn are especially famous.

At the center of the Main Hall stands an over 10-meter-tall wooden statue of the Eleven-Headed Kannon Bodhisattva—one of the largest wooden Buddhist statues in Japan. Known historically as the “Unseen Kannon,” it is treated as a hidden Buddha and shown to the public only during specific periods. The statue’s serene yet powerful presence continues to captivate worshippers and visitors alike.

　■ Noborirō (登廊) 

Leading up to the Main Hall is the Noborirō, one of Hase-dera Temple’s most iconic sights. This corridor of about 200 meters contains 399 stone steps, which are sheltered by a wooden roof to protect against the elements. The gentle slope and protective structure make for a comfortable ascent.

In spring, peonies bloom along both sides of the steps; in autumn, the vibrant colors of the leaves delight visitors. This corridor provides a unique way to appreciate the seasonal beauty of Hase-dera and is a picture-perfect spot for photographs.

　■ Five-Story Pagoda 

Although relatively new—built in 1980—Hase-dera Temple’s Five-Story Pagoda attracts many admirers with its striking design and location. Standing about 31.4 meters tall, the wooden pagoda revives the charm of traditional tower architecture in a modern era.

Surrounding the pagoda, flowers bloom in every season, creating a harmonious scene of nature and architecture. Though the interior is generally not open to the public, the exterior alone offers a sense of awe and splendor.

　■ Daikōdō (大講堂) 

出展：介護アンテナ

The Daikōdō, or Great Lecture Hall, is used for educational and training purposes within the temple and is also open to the general public. Inside, you’ll find a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha and richly detailed ceiling paintings, making it an architecturally significant space.

Periodic Dharma talks and cultural lectures are held here, offering visitors opportunities to learn more about Buddhist teachings. If you have the chance to align your visit with these events, it’s well worth attending for a unique experience.

　■ Honbō Garden (本坊庭園) 

The Honbō Garden at Hase-dera combines dry landscape elements (kare-sansui) with a pond-centered strolling garden, forming a space of refined elegance. Throughout the year, you can admire cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vivid autumn foliage, and serene snowy scenes in winter.

The reflection of the surrounding trees on the central pond provides a moment of deep tranquility and relaxation. There is also a teahouse in the garden, where you can savor matcha and traditional sweets while enjoying the view.

　■ Peony Garden (牡丹園) 

Often called the “Temple of Flowers,” Hase-dera is especially renowned for its spring peonies. Around 7,000 peony plants dot the temple grounds, blooming in vibrant colors from April to May. As peonies symbolize wealth and honor in Japanese culture, many tourists flock here in search of their beauty.

Beyond peonies, the temple offers other seasonal highlights—cherry blossoms, hydrangeas, and autumn leaves—ensuring a beautiful natural backdrop no matter when you visit.

 Conclusion 

Hase-dera Temple is steeped in history and enriched by the harmony of nature and cultural treasures. For over 1,300 years, it has served not only as a center of Buddhist devotion but also as a destination where visitors can experience the splendor of each season. From the Main Hall’s grand vista to the seasonal flowers lining the Noborirō and the majestic Buddhist sculptures and historic buildings, every corner of Hase-dera offers a sense of peace and deep inspiration.

If you plan a trip to Nara, be sure to include Hase-dera Temple on your itinerary, and immerse yourself in its rich history and captivating charm.