Kamakura, a historic coastal city in Japan’s Kanagawa Prefecture, is renowned for its ancient temples, serene landscapes, and deep cultural heritage. While daytime visits offer glimpses of samurai history and blooming gardens, the night unveils a magical side rarely experienced by visitors. Enter “Hase-dera NIGHT TABLE 2025,” an exclusive evening event at Hase-dera Temple (also known as Hase Kannon Temple) that transforms the sacred grounds into a captivating blend of art, music, and gourmet delights. Scheduled from October 10 to 13, 2025, this limited-capacity experience invites just 60 guests per night to immerse themselves in Kamakura’s autumnal charm under the stars. Perfect for international travelers seeking authentic Japanese culture beyond the crowds, this event promises a luxurious, non-everyday escape.
As global interest in mindful travel grows, events like Hase-dera NIGHT TABLE highlight Japan’s ability to weave tradition with modernity. The temple, home to an 11-faced Kannon Bodhisattva statue over 1,300 years old, becomes a stage for innovative installations, live performances, and regional flavors. This year’s theme, “Kannon Mountain: Nighttime Tales,” draws on the temple’s mystical aura, offering a sensory journey that’s both spiritually uplifting and entertaining.
Four Unmissable Highlights of Hase-dera NIGHT TABLE 2025
The event kicks off after regular temple hours end at 5 PM, with entry at 5:30 PM. Guests enjoy a private, reservation-only atmosphere, ensuring an intimate setting. Here’s what makes this autumn spectacle stand out:
1. Exclusive Stroll Through Green-Lit Temple Grounds
Imagine wandering Hase-dera’s lush grounds bathed in ethereal green lights—a rare “green illumination” tailored for the deep foliage season. While the temple has long hosted red maple and plum blossom light-ups in fall and winter, this verdant glow has been a long-awaited dream. The later sunsets of early autumn previously made nighttime events challenging, but NIGHT TABLE 2025 finally brings it to life. This lent-out experience allows you to explore hidden paths, ancient statues, and panoramic views of Kamakura’s coastline without the daytime hustle. It’s a peaceful nod to Japan’s appreciation for seasonal beauty, or “mono no aware,” evoking a sense of transient wonder.
2. Stunning Flower Bonsai Installation by Renowned Designer Kazuyuki Ishihara
At the heart of the event is a revamped flower bonsai installation by Kazuyuki Ishihara, dubbed the “Green Magician” by Queen Elizabeth II. This world-class landscape artist, with 13 gold medals from the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show in the UK, has transformed Hase-dera’s gardens into a living artwork. Illuminated at night, the display merges traditional Japanese bonsai techniques with contemporary flair, featuring vibrant blooms and intricate designs. Ishihara’s global influence—as a green ambassador in nine Japanese cities—adds an international appeal, making this a must-see for art enthusiasts. It’s not just visual; it’s an invitation to reflect on nature’s harmony, a core tenet of Buddhist philosophy at Hase-dera.
3. Immersive Live Concerts in the Sacred Kannon Hall
The highlight for many will be the special concerts held in the Kannon Hall, directly before the temple’s revered 11-faced Kannon statue. Each night features unique artists blending genres, creating a full-body sensory experience in this historic space:
- October 10 (Friday): Takuya Miura (guitarist from DEPAPEPE) and NAOTO (violinist) deliver emotive melodies with acrobatic flair, fusing instrumental rock and classical elements.
- October 11 (Saturday): Everly, a hybrid group led by the Matsuo brothers, performs genre-bending sounds with guests like cellist Tomoko Iri and shakuhachi player Akihiko Yamano. Known for school concerts and Olympic events, they appeal to families and music lovers alike.
- October 12 (Sunday): Keiko Tokunaga (Grammy-nominated violinist) and Reikano Kimura (koto and shamisen master) with friends from INTERWOVEN ensemble. Their East-West fusion has graced venues like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, promoting cultural harmony through workshops and performances.
- October 13 (Monday, Holiday): Kotohime, a pioneering trio of East Asian zithers (Japanese koto by Nobuko Hayashi, Chinese guzheng by Xiaoqing Jiang, and Korean gayageum by Suna Park). As part of the “East Asian Capital of Culture 2025 Kamakura” initiative, this day celebrates regional ties. This program, endorsed by Japan, China, and Korea’s culture ministers, fosters mutual understanding through arts, leveraging Kamakura’s history as a hub of East Asian exchange to promote peace and creativity.
These performances aren’t just entertainment; they’re a rare chance to connect with Japan’s musical heritage in a sacred context, enhancing the event’s cultural depth.
4. Gourmet Dinner Showcasing Kamakura and Shonan Flavors
Cap off the evening with a buffet-style dinner curated by Chef Shin Ogawa of Ristorante La Luce, a beloved Italian spot in Kamakura’s Komachi Street. Using fresh seafood, seasonal Kamakura vegetables, and local ingredients, the menu blends Italian techniques with Japanese essence—think elegant dishes enjoyed with chopsticks for accessibility. Free-flowing drinks, including alcohol, add to the luxury. The restaurant, open for lunch (11:30 AM–2 PM) and dinner (6 PM–9 PM) at 1-7-6 Yukishita, Kamakura (Phone: 0467-23-2352), embodies the region’s farm-to-table ethos. Weather permitting, dine amid the gardens; rain plans ensure comfort.
Insights from the Event Organizer
In an exclusive interview, the Hase-dera team shared the event’s origins. Launched in 2023 to combat Kamakura’s daytime overcrowding (with 16 million annual visitors), it evolved from keywords like “composite event,” “non-ordinary,” and “luxury.” Past light-ups and charity concerts inspired the fusion, with tourism grants aiding initial operations. This year ups the ante with enhanced acoustics, refreshed installations, and smoother dining setups. The organizer invites everyone—from temple fans to Kamakura newcomers—to discover nighttime wonders, aiming to make it an autumn staple. Standouts include the green lights, Kannon-front concerts, local buffets, and the cultural tie-in on October 13.
Event Details and Booking
- Dates: October 10–13, 2025 (Friday to Monday holiday).
- Capacity: 60 guests per night.
- Price: 16,800 yen per person.
- Schedule: Entry at 5:30 PM; concert at 6 PM; buffet at 7 PM; ends at 9 PM.
- Booking: Via dedicated website (advance reservations required).
- Notes: Rain or shine (cancellations for severe weather); steep stairs (no elevators); no children under elementary age, pets, or free parking. Bring warm clothing for outdoor elements.
This event not only enriches your Kamakura itinerary but also supports sustainable tourism in a city blending ancient Zen with modern vibes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What makes Hase-dera NIGHT TABLE 2025 suitable for international visitors?
The event is designed with cultural accessibility in mind, offering English-friendly explanations via the booking site and on-site staff. It’s a gentle introduction to Japanese temple etiquette while providing global art and music influences. - Is the event wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, due to the temple’s hillside location and stairs, it’s not fully accessible. We recommend checking with organizers for any accommodations. - Can I attend if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, inform the team during booking. The buffet features fresh, local ingredients with options for vegetarians, but confirm allergies in advance.
Indulge in the luxurious night of Kamakura at Hase-dera NIGHT TABLE 2025—where art, music, and cuisine create unforgettable stories under the autumn moon. Book early to secure your spot in this exclusive cultural gem.
