Nara: Explore Hasedera’s Giant Kannon and Cliffside Temple

Nara Prefecture , Japan

Nara: Explore Hasedera’s Giant Kannon and Cliffside Temple

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover a hidden side of Nara on this guided visit to Hasedera Temple, a stunning site where a giant wooden statue of Kannon Bodhisattva stands inside a dramatic cliffside hall. Few places in Japan combine such spiritual power and architectural beauty in one location.

Walk along the temple’s hillside wooden corridor, enjoy panoramic views, and learn the deeper meaning behind the sacred design from your expert guide.

The tour also includes a visit to nearby Hōki-in Temple, resting place of the monk who carved the Kannon, plus time to explore a charming local shopping street.

Perfect for those seeking more than sightseeing—this is a journey into Japan’s spiritual heritage.

Available options

Nara: Explore Hasedera’s Giant Kannon and Cliffside Temple

What's included

Walk through the elegant wooden corridor that leads up the mountain, steeped in history and serenity

Guided tour of Hasedera Temple

Worship a towering wooden statue of Kannon, carved with awe-inspiring craftsmanship.

Detailed itinerary

Just a short distance from Hasedera lies Hōki-in Temple, a smaller yet spiritually significant site closely tied to the origins of Hasedera’s iconic Kannon statue. This peaceful temple is the resting place of the high priest Tokudō, the revered monk who carved the original statue and helped establish Kannon worship in the region.

Although modest in size, Hōki-in exudes a quiet reverence and historic charm. Its role in supporting the spiritual foundation of Hasedera makes it an essential stop for visitors seeking to deepen their understanding of Japan’s Buddhist traditions and the lives of the monks who brought them to life.

The temple grounds provide a serene atmosphere for reflection, often free from crowds, and allow travelers to connect with the deeper roots of the pilgrimage culture that still thrives today in Nara.

Nestled in the tranquil mountains east of Nara, Hasedera Temple is a captivating site that combines two of Japan’s most iconic temple features: a monumental wooden statue of Kannon Bodhisattva and a breathtaking kake-zukuri (cliffside-style) wooden hall that seems to float above the slope.

For centuries, Hasedera has been a sacred site for Kannon worship and an important pilgrimage destination. Its massive statue of Kannon—standing on a stone pedestal instead of a lotus—symbolizes a deity who walks among people to offer salvation. The hall that houses it represents the mythical cliffside island where Kannon dwells, turning the temple into a symbolic landscape of Buddhist cosmology.

Visitors can stroll the wooden corridor that climbs the hillside, offering sweeping views of the temple and valley below. With expert guides, you’ll uncover the deep spiritual and literary heritage that makes Hasedera a truly profound experience.

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The meeting point is in front of the ticket gate at Kintetsu Hasedera Station. Your guide will be waiting for you with a yellow sign. For more details, please refer to the map.

About Nara Prefecture

Nara Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage. As the first permanent capital of Japan, it boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the famous Nara Park with its friendly deer and the iconic Todai-ji Temple housing the Great Buddha.

Top Attractions

Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous temples. It houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a massive bronze statue of Buddha that is a symbol of Nara.

Historical/Religious 1.5 to 2 hours ¥600

Nara Park

Nara Park is famous for its friendly wild deer, which are considered messengers of the Shinto gods. The park is a beautiful green space with scenic walking paths and historic temples.

Nature/Cultural 1 to 2 hours Free (¥200 for deer crackers)

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha is a renowned Shinto shrine with a history dating back to 768 AD. It is famous for its lanterns, which are donated by worshippers and hang from the shrine's buildings.

Religious/Cultural 1 to 1.5 hours Free (¥500 for the Treasure Museum)

Nara National Museum

The Nara National Museum houses a vast collection of Buddhist art and artifacts, providing insight into Japan's religious and cultural history.

Museum/Cultural 1 to 1.5 hours ¥700

Isuien Garden

Isuien Garden is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden with a history dating back to the Edo period. It offers stunning views of Mount Wakakusa and the surrounding city.

Nature/Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour ¥310

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kakinoha-zushi

Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, a traditional Nara delicacy with a unique flavor and aroma

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and rice, may contain allergens

Miso-ni

A comforting miso-based soup with tofu, vegetables, and sometimes meat, reflecting Nara's Buddhist culinary traditions

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available, may contain soy

Kudzu-mochi

A traditional Japanese sweet made from kudzu starch, often served with kinako (roasted soybean flour) and kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup)

Dessert Vegetarian, may contain gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mount Yoshino Cycling around Nara Park Tea ceremony at a traditional tea house Strolling through Isuien Garden Visiting historic temples and shrines Participating in a traditional craft workshop Visiting hot springs (onsen) in nearby areas Enjoying winter illuminations at temples

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November)

Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage. These seasons provide comfortable weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Expect large crowds and higher prices for accommodations.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Nara is a very safe destination with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour guides and vendors

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km from Nara city center
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 35 km from Nara city center

By train

Nara Station, Kintetsu Nara Station

By bus

Nara Station Bus Terminal, Kintetsu Nara Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Nara City Loop Bus is a convenient and affordable way to get around. Buses are frequent and easy to use, with English announcements and signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nara Park and Todai-ji Area Nakatanicho Sanjo Dori

Day trips

Asuka Village

15 km from Nara • Half day to full day

Asuka Village is a historic site with ancient tombs, temples, and ruins, offering a glimpse into Japan's ancient past. It is known as the birthplace of Japanese civilization and the first permanent capital of Japan.

Mount Yoshino

25 km from Nara • Full day

Mount Yoshino is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in the spring and beautiful autumn foliage. It is also a sacred site with numerous temples and shrines, including the famous Kinpusen-ji Temple.

Osaka

40 km from Nara • Full day

Osaka is a vibrant city with a mix of modern attractions, historic sites, and delicious street food. It offers a diverse range of experiences, from shopping and dining to cultural and historical exploration.

Festivals

Nara Tokae Shogyo Festival • April 1st Nara Matsuri • October (second weekend) Shinji-kawase Festival • July 14th-15th

Pro tips

Visit Todai-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere
Buy deer crackers (shika senbei) to feed the friendly deer in Nara Park, but be cautious and follow the park's guidelines
Consider purchasing a Kintetsu Railway Pass for unlimited travel on Kintetsu lines, which can be cost-effective for tourists
Explore Nara-machi, the old town, for a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and local crafts
Try kakinoha-zushi, a unique Nara delicacy made with sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves