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Hase-dera is a Jodo-sect temple traditionally said to have been founded in 736 CE, with the 9.18 m wooden eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva (Hase Kannon) as its principal image. One of the largest wooden Buddhist sculptures in Japan, the statue is revered for blessings related to love, children, and good fortune, and the temple has been called 'the Western Paradise of Kamakura.' The viewing terrace overlooks Yuigahama, Inari-ga-saki, and the Miura Peninsula, and the temple is renowned for its hydrangea season in June (around 2,500 plants) and for autumn foliage.
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この記事で分かること：Guide to Hase-dera: the Hase Kannon, the panoramic viewing terrace, June hydrangeas, the Benten-kutsu cave, admission, access, and crowd-avoidance tips.
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The Hase Kannon — One of Japan's Largest Wooden Buddhist Statues
Enshrined in the main hall is the Hase Kannon — an eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva standing 9.18 m tall and covered in gold leaf. One of the largest wooden Buddhist sculptures in Japan, its overwhelming scale and serene beauty leave a lasting impression. It is venerated for blessings related to love, children, and good fortune.
A Panoramic View of Shonan and Yuigahama from the Viewing Terrace
The viewing terrace (miharashi-dai) in the temple grounds is one of Kamakura's finest viewpoints, looking out over Yuigahama beach, Inari-ga-saki, Enoshima island, and the Miura Peninsula. On a clear day Mt. Fuji is also visible, and the open, sea-breeze-filled space is a welcome contrast to the temple's interior.
Hydrangeas — Kamakura's Signature Early-Summer Sight
About 2,500 hydrangea plants around the Kyozo sutra repository transform the hillside in spectacular shades of blue, purple, and pink from early to late June. This is one of the most beloved early-summer scenes in Kamakura and draws visitors from across the region each year.
The Cave Shrine (Benten-kutsu) — A Candlelit Underground Sanctuary
Inside the temple grounds is Benten-kutsu, a cave shrine dedicated to Benzaiten (goddess of arts and fortune). The dimly lit interior is illuminated by candles, and stone carvings of sixteen attendant figures line the walls — a mysteriously atmospheric space unlike anything above ground.
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Basic Information
Time Required
1–1.5 hours
Admission
¥400
Opening Hours
8:00–17:00 (Oct–Feb until 16:30)
Address
3-11-2 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa
Access
Enoden "Hase Station" — approx. 5 min walk
Hydrangea Season
Typically early to late June (timed entry may apply)
What to See
The Hase Kannon and the Main Hall
The Hase Kannon (wooden eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva) is said to be one of two statues carved by the monk Tokudo Shonin in 721 CE. One of the pair was cast into the sea and washed ashore at Kamakura, where it became the principal image of Hase-dera. At 9.18 m, gleaming with gold leaf, the figure fills the main hall with an overwhelming sense of presence. The interior is dim, and the sheer scale of the statue makes it one of Kamakura's most unforgettable encounters.
The Viewing Terrace and Kyozo Repository
The viewing terrace is the finest vantage point in the temple grounds. Yuigahama beach, Inari-ga-saki, Enoshima, and the Miura Peninsula stretch out below, and on a clear day Mt. Fuji rises beyond. The area around the Kyozo (sutra repository) near the terrace becomes blanketed in hydrangeas each June, offering a simultaneously floral and coastal view.
Benten-kutsu Cave and Jizo-do Hall
Deep within the grounds is Benten-kutsu, a cave enshrining Benzaiten — goddess of arts and fortune. Candlelight illuminates Sanskrit inscriptions and stone carvings of sixteen attendant figures lining the walls, creating an atmospheric underground sanctuary. The Jizo-do hall nearby displays a variety of Jizo stone figures — including the Ryoen Jizo and Kosodate Jizo — each adorned with small bibs placed by worshippers with wishes.
Getting There
By Enoden (Recommended)
Enoshima Electric Railway — "Hase Station": approx. 5 min walk
By Bus
Enoba Bus from JR Kamakura Station (West Exit) — "Hasekannon" stop: walk right out (approx. 15 min)
Tips & Things to Know
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