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Hase-dera is surrounded by lush mountains and is one of the few sacred places for Kannon in Japan. It was built along the middle of the initial road from Yamato Province to Ise Province. It has been celebrated in both "Inkunokuni no Hase" and "Manyoshu."
According to legend, it was founded in 686. The monk Dōmyō dedicated the "Copper Plate Lotus Sutra Illustration" at Nishinoka for Emperor Tenmu, which marked the beginning. Later, in 727, under the holy decree of Emperor Shōmu, the monk Tokudō crafted the "Eleven-faced Kannon," establishing it as a sacred site of Kannon worship that has been deeply revered by the public.
After climbing the 399 steps of the long corridor, one arrives at the main hall. The main hall, designated as a national treasure, is built in the irimoya-zukuri style with a tiled roof, perched on a steep cliff. In front of the hall is a wooden stage that extends outward, offering a spectacular view. Inside the main hall stands a statue of the Eleven-faced Kannon, approximately 12 meters tall, making it the largest Kannon statue in Japan, awaiting the arrival of worshippers.
Since ancient times, Hase-dera has been known as the "Temple of Flowers," and visitors can enjoy beautiful seasonal flowers throughout the year. Cherry blossoms, plum blossoms, hydrangeas, lotus flowers, and osmanthus bloom in abundance, with peonies being the most famous.
Over a thousand years ago, it became well-known as "Hase-dera of Peonies," recognized as the premier peony viewing spot in Japan. Every year, during the flowering season from late April to early May, the "Peony Festival" is held, showcasing around 150 varieties and 7,000 blooming peonies.
