Hase Temple: A Journey Through 1,300 Years of Heritage Located in the quiet town of Sakurai in Nara Prefecture, Hase Temple (Hase Dera) offers a tranquil escape into Japan’s spiritual and historical heritage. Known as the head temple of the Buzan branch of Shingon Buddhism, Hase Temple has been a center of worship and pilgrimage for over 1,300 years. Away from the bustling center of Nara, it invites visitors to immerse themselves in a serene environment steeped in tradition, faith, and natural beauty. Beyond Nara’s Crowds: A Hidden Gem in Sakurai While most visitors to Nara flock to places like Todai-ji or Kasuga Taisha, Hase Temple provides a more secluded and reflective experience. Situated about 75 minutes by train from Kyoto and a 15-minute walk from Hasedera Station, the journey to Hase Temple is part of its charm. Along the way, you’ll pass through a quaint temple town filled with traditional shops selling kusamochi (mugwort rice cakes), a local specialty. A Journey Through 1,300 Years of History Founded in 686 AD, Hase Temple is one of Japan’s most historic Buddhist temples and serves as the head temple for over 240 Hasedera temples across Japan, including the well-known one in Kamakura. The temple is also the eighth stop on the renowned Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, a route of 33 temples dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. This pilgrimage was recognized as a Japan Heritage site in 2019 for its cultural significance. Architectural Marvels and Spiritual Highlights Nio Gate: The Grand Entrance Your visit begins at the Nio Gate, an imposing wooden structure adorned with two fierce guardian statues believed to ward off evil spirits. This gate sets the tone for the spiritual journey ahead. Noboriro: The Sacred Climb One of the most striking features of Hase Temple is the Noboriro, a covered wooden staircase with 399 steps that ascends the hillside. This climb offers not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual one, as the peaceful surroundings encourage mindfulness with every step. Along the way, you’ll pass the Sohōzō Treasure Hall, which houses national treasures and important cultural artifacts related to the temple. Admission is free, and the collection is well worth exploring. The Main Hall: Home of the Eleven-Faced Kannon At the top of the climb stands the main hall, where you’ll find the temple’s principal object of worship: the Eleven-Faced Kannon Bodhisattva, the largest wooden statue of its kind in Japan. Standing over 10 meters tall, the statue is a breathtaking symbol of compassion and spiritual power, with intricate details that captivate all who see it. The Five-Story Pagoda Another highlight is the five-story pagoda, built in 1954, making it the first pagoda constructed in Japan after World War II. Known as the “Pagoda of the Showa Era”, its elegant design reflects a harmonious blend of traditional architecture and modern resilience. Seasonal Beauty and Festivals Hase Temple is stunning in every season, with its surroundings constantly transforming to showcase the beauty of nature. Key highlights include: Spring: A spectacular display of 7,000 peony plants during the Peony Festival (April-May). Autumn: The temple grounds are ablaze with vivid red and orange hues, making it one of the best spots in Nara for autumn foliage. Winter: A serene landscape covered in snow, offering a tranquil experience. Cultural Festivals: The temple hosts various events, including the Kannon Memorial Service in October, celebrating the deity’s influence and blessings. The Taste of Tradition: Kusamochi No trip to Hase Temple is complete without sampling kusamochi, a soft and slightly sweet rice cake flavored with mugwort. Among the many shops in the temple town, Shirozakeya stands out for its freshly made kusamochi. This local treat is a perfect way to end your visit, combining a taste of tradition with a moment of indulgence. トップページ Visiting Tips Wear comfortable shoes: With steep stairs and expansive grounds, proper footwear is essential to fully enjoy your visit. Plan ahead: Exploring the entire temple can take over two hours, so prioritize key spots like the main hall, the pagoda, and the treasure hall, especially if you’re short on time. Best times to visit: Spring for the vibrant peony blooms or autumn for the breathtaking fall foliage. Accessibility: While the 399 steps may be a challenge, the climb is an integral part of the temple experience. Take your time and enjoy the serene surroundings as you ascend. Photography etiquette: Many temples in Japan prohibit photography of sacred items such as statues, and Hase Temple is no exception. Look for camera prohibition signs and avoid taking photos of restricted areas to respect the sanctity of the site. Access Information Hours: April-September: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM October-November & March: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM December-February: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM(Extended hours during special events like the Peony Festival.) Admission: Adults, middle, and high school students: 500 yen Elementary school students: 250 yen Getting to Hase Temple By Train: From Kyoto, take the Kintetsu Line to Hasedera Station (about 75 minutes), then walk 15 minutes to the temple. By Car: Parking is available near the temple. Why Visit Hase Temple? Hase Temple offers a unique combination of spiritual depth, natural beauty, and historical significance. Whether you’re marveling at the Eleven-Faced Kannon, climbing the Noboriro, or savoring kusamochi in the temple town, every aspect of the journey invites reflection and wonder. Far from the crowds of central Nara, Hase Temple provides a serene escape into the heart of Japan’s cultural heritage. If you need more information in English, you can refer official HP