Hasedera

Hasedera is a Buddhist temple located in Ueno town, Nara Prefecture, Japan. The name means “Deer Temple” and the site has been frequented by the sacred deer that roam freely throughout the complex. The temple is affiliated with the Jōdo-shū sect and was founded in the 7th century, with its earliest structures dating back to the Nara period.

The main hall, built in the early Heian era, houses a revered statue of Yakushi Nyorai (the Buddha of Healing). A stone pagoda in the compound, established in the 8th century, is a prominent feature and is protected as a National Treasure. The complex includes a bell tower, a small shrine, and several wooden structures that exemplify traditional Japanese temple architecture. Hasedera is also known for its meticulously kept gardens and the seasonal displays of Japanese maple and cherry blossoms, which attract visitors during spring and autumn.

Tourists can observe the deer that are considered messengers of the gods and are fed in designated areas. The temple offers tea ceremonies and cultural programs that showcase Nara’s historical heritage. Hasedera remains an important religious and cultural site, illustrating the harmonious relationship between Buddhism and indigenous Shinto beliefs in the region.