⛩️ Oyamajinja Shrine

Oyamajinja Shrine was established in 1873 by former samurai of the Kaga Domain to honor the founder of the Kaga Domain, Maeda Toshiie, and his wife, Asamatsu. The shrine is widely known for its unique architectural style that blends elements from Japan, China, and the West in its torii gate. The uppermost level features a rare structure adorned with Western stained glass, and the sacred lanterns illuminated Kanazawa and served as a lighthouse for ships navigating the Sea of Japan. Upon passing through the torii gate, visitors are greeted by the worship hall, which has a traditional irimoya-style roof covered with tiles. The ceilings of the various rooms are painted with vividly colored udumbara flowers, and the transoms are intricately carved with plum blossom patterns, making it quite a sight to behold. Behind the worship hall stands the solemn main hall, designed in the three-bay style. To the right of the main hall is a rare red brick fence, decorated with a hollowed-out plum blossom crest. The shrine grounds feature a strolling garden designed to resemble ancient dance music instruments, as well as the Kanazawa Shrine, which enshrines the first lord, Maeda Toshi-naga, through to the seventeenth lord and their wives. Additionally, there is the Higashi Torii Gate, originally part of the Ninomaru Karamon of Kanazawa Castle, which was relocated here from Utsumiyama Shokonsai in the early Meiji period, along with statues of Maeda Toshiie and Asamatsu.

You can see the nationally rare, country-designated important cultural property "Shinkamon," which is a unique blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Western styles. It is one of the famous attractions in Kanazawa City. Every year, starting from the first Saturday in June, the Million Stone Parade takes place, along with various events related to the Kaga Domain throughout the year.