Hase-dera is one of the most atmospheric temple complexes in Kamakura — set on a hillside with gardens, a pond, sea views from the upper terrace, and in the lower level a cave containing hundreds of small votive statues of Jizō (guardian deity of travellers and children). The main hall houses the 9-metre gilded wooden Kannon, one of the largest wooden sculptures in Japan.
The approach through the garden is beautiful in any season: hydrangeas in June, maples in autumn, and something flowering in most other months. The upper terrace behind the main hall gives views over the town and, on clear days, across Sagami Bay. Below the terrace, a cave carved into the cliff face is lined with small Jizō figures left by visitors over generations — some wearing bibs, some wearing red woollen hats.
Hase-dera is near the Great Buddha in the western part of Kamakura, a few minutes' walk from Hase Station on the Enoden line.