Hasedera Temple (Nara) 長谷寺

Hasedera Temple is a sprawling complex located in Sakurai City, to the southeast of Nara City . The temple buildings are on the side of a mountain, with the main hall at the top.

Hasedera Temple is 15 minutes on foot from Kintetsu Hasedera Station.

This temple was first built in 686, during the arrival of Buddhism in Japan. It enshrined a copper plaque made to pray for the Emperor's recovery from illness.

Forty years later an eleven-faced statue of Kannon, was carved from a sacred tree and also enshrined.

Hasedera Temple is still used as a training ground, with living quarters and library buildings in use by monks.

Climb the famous stairs of Hasedera Temple up 399 steps to the main hall. These stairs go on for nearly 200 meters. The roof offers protection from the weather while open pillar construction allows for fantastic views of the mountainside. In spring, blooming peonies line this staircase, making for a magical ascent. The views are equally enjoyable in the fall when surrounded by the reds and golds of autumn foliage.

When you arrive at the top of the stairs, pay a visit to the main hall. The stage attached to it offers sweeping views of the valley beneath. The view is especially lovely in spring when the cherry trees blossom and, in the fall, when the leaves turn.