Hase Things to Do

Nested against Mt. Takamado's western slope, is a temple whose five-colored camellias are so unusual that the area has been named a national monument. Byakugo-ji is also famous for its white and red bush clover, hagi. Bright fl... more

Formerly called the Hokoji, it is known as Japan's first Buddhist temple. It was removed to this site from Asuka in 718. One of Nara's seven great temples, Gango-ji was noted for its mandala which Priest Chiko painted, its roof... more

Nara is famous for art works, particular to the region, employing traditional techniques going back for a millennium. In this authentic row house setting are demonstrations of contemporary craftsmen working using time honored s... more

Established in 686 and affectionately dubbed "the temple of the long valley," Hasedera owns the renowned eleven-faced Kannon called Juichimen Kannon. There is a spectacular view from the platform of the main hall which is suspe... more

The entrance to this famous temple is through the 15th century Nadai Mon gate. The Chumon gate, the main hall and the pagoda collectively are believed to be the world's oldest wooden structures, dating to the 7th century. It is... more

Formerly an annex to Gango-ji, Jurin-in was established in the early 8th century under the supervision of Nakai Asano to fulfill the wishes of Empress Gensho. Its small stone shrine houses both a Jizo and Gautama Buddhist statu... more

The architecture of this museum is definitely modern but its designer Kishio Kurokawa managed to construct an aesthetically pleasing building which blends in well with the backdrop of Nara. Dedicated to the noteworthy photograp... more

This peaceful hotel outside of Osaka is a wonderful getaway. It's a Ryokan style hotel and features hot springs along with all the usual hotel comforts one would expect. Built in 1909, this Inn has a delightful and classic arch... more

For a bit of local history, stop here before visiting the temples and museums. The Koshin-do Hall is named for the monkey-like god, called Migawari-zuru or Negai-zaru. His role is to prevent bad luck, instead the monkey can be... more

The result of a plan to tie in with the Silk Road Exposition (1988) and the revitalization of Nara-machi, this specialty museum focuses on various devices which men have produced to mark time. For example, the then Crown Prince... more