On November 19, 1978, when Hara was a Waseda University student, he debuted for Japan national team against Soviet Union.

Following his release from Urawa, Hara travelled to Spain to study the coaching methods applied by several La Liga clubs.

He brought youngsters such as Naohiro Ishikawa, Teruyuki Moniwa and Akira Kaji, introduced Spanish-style tactics into the young and fresh team, and won J.League Cup in 2004.

[2] After fellow Waseda alumnus Takeshi Okada stepped down after leading Japan to a lauded performance at the 2010 World Cup, Hara was given the responsibility for finding his replacement, which was revealed in late August after protracted negotiations in Europe to be the Italian manager Alberto Zaccheroni.

He also took charge in a caretaker capacity for the friendlies against Paraguay, leading Japan to a 1-0 win, and Guatemala, both of which were held at his former hunting ground in Saitama Stadium 2002.