Buddhism in Japanese history and culture
Buddhism is one of the largest religions in Japan which arrived when the country started trading with China. During this time, a close relationship between the two countries has paved the way for the formation of a strong foundation of this new religion in the country.
As statistics show, more than 90 percent of the Japanese have identified themselves as either Buddhist or Shinto. This means that there are almost 90 million Buddhist all over the country. This goes to show that the religion has a strong influence on the culture of the Japanese. In fact, the development of the Japanese society can strongly be attributed to the tenets and teachings of Buddhism. Even today, the Japanese are still strongly influenced by this religion.
The Jodo Sect (Hase-Dera Kanagawa)
A branch of Buddhism, also known as Shin Buddhism, has started to become a popular practice in Japan. It was in the early 1100s when this sect has separated from the earlier form of Buddhism. Since then, it has become quite widely practiced all over the country. In fact, even during the time, it was established it is the most widely practiced form of Buddhism in the country.
The main doctrine of this religion is strongly linked to the concept of Mappo. According to Jodo sect teachings, there will come a time when people’s beliefs in Buddhism will decline. Humanity will become corrupt and become blinded that they cannot uphold the teachings of Buddha any longer.
Because of this belief, the sect has formed certain practices, rituals, meditation techniques, and teachings that will help individuals resist this so-called decline. The teachings itself does not deviate from the teachings of other Buddhist practices but they have significantly improved on helping their believers stay enlightened.
In this sect, people believe in a method of reciting the Nembutsu. The first is through the Junen style, where the nembutsu is literally recited ten times. The second is the Nembutsu Ichie or the countless number of times the nembutsu will be recited. Lastly, the nembutsu sanshorai which is the style for which the nembutsu is recited three times with a bow. This will total to about nine recitations.
This particular branch of Buddhism flourishes in the Hase-Dera temple of Kanagawa. This is located in Kamakura, Japan. One of their most important deities would be the eleven-headed Kannon.
Buzan Sect (Hase-Dera Nara)
Another branch of Buddhism famous in Japan would be the Buzan sect. This particular branch has started to become popular in the 16th century. It was originally established by a priest named Senyo Sojo. This particular kind of Buddhism focuses on what are known as “the True Words” or in simpler terms Mantra. The teachings of the Buzan Sect Buddhism focuses on the idea that enlightenment can be achieved not through a stream of reincarnations and lives.
Instead, this particular sect of Buddhism believes that enlightenment can be achieved in a person’s lifetime. Their teachings focus on how an individual can find what they believe is innate wisdom. Their rituals and practices help an individual reach enlightenment.
This particular branch flourishes in the hase-Dera temple of the Nara prefecture. This particular temple is very popular and is considered as a National Treasure of Japan.
Things to know about Hase Japan
Hase-Dera Nara
The Hasedera in Nara Japan is home to what is known as the Buzan sect of Buddhism. This particular temple is located at the Sakurai district of the Nara prefecture. It is believed that it was established in the year 686. This particular temple is so old and famous that it has become a National Treasure of Japan.
According to the list of the country’s national treasures, there are many aspects of this temple that serve a cultural importance. For instance, the main hall is considered as a National Treasure because it is home to the Eleven Faced Kannon. Its age, architecture and make are all important parts of the Japanese culture. It is a reminder of how the ancient Japanese people have flourished through religion. It is also a manifestation of the value of Buddhism to the culture of the Japanese.
Within the complex, there are also Important Cultural Properties which are parts of the structure which should be preserved but not necessarily the entire building. For instance, the Nio gate of the Hasedera temple and the Shoro Bell are both important cultural properties. The Shoro bell is the original bell which was built onto the temple when it was established.
This particular temple is a popular tourist attraction because of its detailed architecture which shows the kinds of artwork was popular in Japan at the time it was first built. It is a good place to go for a cultural and educational trip. Also, the courtyard of the temple is also a good place to view because of the countless maple trees that turn red during the autumn season.
Hase-Dera Kanagawa
In another part of Japan, there is another temple of the same name. But this is known as the Hase-Dera Kannon. This particular temple is found in Kamakura in Kanagawa prefecture Japan. Although the origin of this hasedera is quite unclear, there is a legend that indicates that it was established in 729. However, there is some evidence that shows that it was built at a much later time. Because of this, the history of the temple is not that documented.
One of the main highlights of the Hase-Dera Kannon is the main statue of Kannon. It is considered as one of the largest statues in Japan towering at 30ft. The temple is very interesting and is quite famous for its hydrangea flowers. During the months of June and July, these flowers are at its full bloom – a popular attraction to both local and foreign travelers.
A number of people travel to this temple to get a sight of the 50,000 Jizo statues which are located in the Hase-Dera Kannon. These are small statues which are made to mourn children who died at birth, from abortion, or miscarriage.
Another attraction of the Hasedera Kannon is the cave that leads to a devotional altar to a sea goddess, and the only female member of the Seven Lucky Gods. Her name is known as the Benzaiten. She is believed to be the protector of this place particularly the Jizo statues.
Things to do: Hase-Dera Japan Guide
One of the best things to do in Hasedera is to simply enjoy the scenery. Both temples are located strategically on top of hills. The walk up the hill is a great way to enjoy nature. There are a hundred trees of different kinds throughout the place. During the springtime, it is a favorite cherry blossom viewing spot because of the hundreds of cherry trees that could be seen through the walkway. At the top of the temple, the balcony gives majestic views of the cities below. Both Nara and Kanagawa are impressive cities and the views are both spectacular.
Another thing to do inside the Hasedera temples is to enjoy the artwork and the architecture. The stone statues and sculptures around the area is a great way to see centuries old Japanese culture. These are a great way to indulge in the beauty that is Japanese culture.
Most importantly, the hasedera temples are a great way to understand the beliefs of the different sects formed from Buddhism. It is a good way to appreciate their doctrines, their teachings, and the ways of life of its believers.
The Hase Kannon temple in Japan: The Big Buddha of Hase Japan
Eleven-Faced Kannon Statue
The Kannon is known as the Goddess of Mercy is the primary deity of all hasedera temples in Japan. The statue found in Hase Nara is about 31 ft tall and was carved by the priest Tokodo. It is believed that the Kannon statue is the largest wooden statue in the country.
The Kannon is believed to possess a total of 11 heads each of which would have the ability to see evil and badness in the surroundings. It is believed to be the one protecting the hasedera temples. This particular goddess can be found in almost all Buddhist temples all over the world. Since Buddhist believe in the way that Buddha has achieved enlightenment, many people are wondering who the kannon is.
This deity is not Buddha instead it is a Bodhisattva. She is a being who has the ability and capability to reach enlightenment. However, to help in the sorrows and sufferings of humanity, the Kannon has chosen to delay her enlightenment.
It is believed that the Kannon can make miracles. This is why she is a very important character in Japanese Buddhism and there are a countless number of temples in Japan which are attributed only to her. Interestingly enough, there is even a Maria Kannon which was a substitute to the Virgin Mary when Christianity was not banned in the country.
How to go to Hase-Dera Japan
Hasedera Nara
The Nara prefecture is located at a significant distance from Tokyo. By car, a person can travel from Tokyo to Nara in a six-hour long drive. People can also reach this place by a four-hour train ride from the Shinjuku station via the Shinkansen.
To get to the hasedera temple of Nara, a person should go down at the Hasedera Station from the Kintetsu Osaka line. From this place, it can be reached via a 20-minute walk. For those who are traveling via the Kintetsu Rail, they can go down at the Hasedera station from the Sakurai station for a short 10-minute ride.
Hasedera Kannon: Hase Station Japan Kanagawa
The Hasedera Kannon is located in Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa Japan. Kanagawa is a bit near to Tokyo which is only about 47 minutes by car. Those who wish to take the train can get to Kanagawa from Tokyo in under an hour. It is located south of Tokyo and is a popular tourist destination near Tokyo.
The Hasedera temple is found on top of a hill and there is no public transportation that can take individuals to this place. However, it is the only walking distance from the Hase station of the Enoden Railway. From this station, travelers can walk uphill for about five minutes before reaching the Hasedera. For those who are taking off from Daibutsu, hasedera is only a 10-minute uphill walk.
Places to visit near Hase-Dera Kanagawa
For those traveling from Tokyo, Kanagawa is a popular side-trip destination and has been reviewed countless times by bloggers and travelers about the greatness of its cities. There are a number of tourist attractions in the area that would surely be enjoyable.
Hase Beach Japan: Yuigahama Beach
A beach near Toky, it is a popular summer destination. Although this place does not exactly spell paradise, it is a good place to go to beat the summer heat. It is not made from white sand beaches, but the parties, the people, and the water are still very enjoyable. This is a popular destination for foreign travelers because of its proximity to the Yokosuka Naval Base. There are bars and restaurants within the entire strip of the beach. There are also souvenir shops, a market and more. It is a complete holiday package in one.
Kamakura Komachi-Dori Street
Another popular destination would be the Kamakura Komachi-Dori Street. This, according to reviews from travel bloggers, is a “must” in the entire prefecture. There are fashionable stores and historical shops spread throughout the street. There are coffee shops which are frequented by popular celebrities and writers.
There are traditional stores that sell antiques. There are bookshops and more. All around the strip of this place are old western-inspired houses which give a view of 1900s Japan. What this place is most famous for is the kimono rental. Shoppers can have the option of renting out an entire set of kimono and go shopping around the area riding a rickshaw - a true and traditional way to travel.