Hase-dera and its view over the bay

Hase-dera climbs a hillside a short walk from the Great Buddha: a garden of ponds and maples at the bottom, halls and rows of small Jizo statues on the way up, and a terrace at the top looking out over the town to Yuigahama Bay.

The terrace gives the view — the sea and the curve of the beach behind a couple — while the lower garden is soft and green. In June the hydrangea path on the hillside is one of Kamakura's best-known sights, with timed entry in the busiest weeks.

Entry is paid. Many of the small statues are offerings made in memory of children: photograph them with respect, and never pose with or touch them.