About Oyama Shrine
Oyama Shrine is a shrine located in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, dedicated to Maeda Toshiie, the founder of the Kaga Domain, and his wife, Lady Omatsu. Founded in 1873 (Meiji 6), it has been a beloved landmark for the citizens of Kanazawa.
Its most distinctive feature is the Shrine Gate, which is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Its unique architectural style blends Japanese, Chinese, and Western architectural styles, and the vividly colored stained glass embedded in the third layer is an extremely rare design for shrine architecture.
Oyama Shrine is a shrine located in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, dedicated to Maeda Toshiie, the founder of the Kaga Domain, and his wife, Lady Omatsu. ### Highlights of the Shrine Gate
- First Floor: A massive stone foundation made of Tomuro stone
- Second Floor: A traditional Japanese-style wooden structure
- Third Floor: A Western-style design with stained glass in arched windows
- Lightning Rod: One of the oldest lightning rods in Japan is installed here; it once served as a lighthouse.
At night, it is illuminated, and the stained glass shines fantastically.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Shrine Garden
Passing through the shrine gate, you will find the “Shrine Garden,” a strolling-style Japanese garden. You can enjoy seasonal flowers and plants, with the cherry blossoms in spring, the fresh greenery in early summer, and the autumn leaves creating particularly beautiful scenery.
Within the garden is a pond where you can stroll while watching Nishikigoi (koi carp) swim. Stone bridges and lanterns are placed around the pond, creating a tranquil atmosphere that evokes the history of the Kaga Domain.
Statue of Lord Maeda Toshiie
Within the temple grounds stands a magnificent bronze statue of Lord Maeda Toshiie, wielding a spear. This image conveys the bravery of the warrior known as “Mataza of the Spear.”
Kanaya Shrine
Within the temple grounds stands the Kanaya Shrine, dedicated to successive feudal lords.
Points to Note When Visiting
Etiquette for Visiting
- Bow Before the Shrine Gate: Bow before passing through the shrine gate, a designated Important Cultural Property.
- Purify at the Water Basin: Purify your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order.
- Pray at the Main Hall: Pray using the two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual.
- Amulet and Gift Shop: You can receive amulets and Goshuin (shrine stamps).
Recommended Visiting Times
- Early Morning (8:00-9:00): You can pray in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
- Dusk: The time when the shrine gate is lit up is magical.
- Spring and Autumn: This is the time when the garden scenery is at its most beautiful.
Benefits
Oyama Shrine is known for the following benefits:
Main Benefits
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: Inspired by Lord Maeda Toshiie, who laid the foundation for the Kaga domain of one million koku, this amulet is believed to bring business prosperity and career advancement.
- Family Safety: Inspired by the harmonious marriage of Lord Toshiie and Lady Omatsu, this amulet is believed to bring harmony and peace to the family.
- Academic Success: Inspired by the martial prowess of the domain’s founder, who excelled in both literary and martial arts, this amulet is believed to bring academic improvement.
- Victory Amulet: Inspired by the bravery of “Yari no Mataza,” this amulet is believed to bring good fortune in competitions.
Popular Amulets
- Lord Toshiie and Lady Omatsu Amulet: Popular among worshippers praying for matchmaking and marital harmony.
- Victory Amulet: For success in competitions such as exams and matches.
- Financial Luck Amulet: Inspired by the “gold” in Kanazawa, this amulet is believed to bring financial luck.
Access
Location
11-1 Oyama-cho, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture
Public Transportation
- From JR Kanazawa Station: Approximately 25 minutes on foot
- By Bus: Get off at the “Minamimachi/Oyama Shrine” bus stop on the Hokutetsu Bus, 3 minutes on foot
- Kanazawa Castle Town Loop Bus: Get off at “Minamimachi/Oyama Shrine” stop, immediately adjacent
Within walking distance of Kanazawa Station, and close to major tourist attractions such as Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle Park, and Higashi Chaya District, it’s easily incorporated into your sightseeing route.
Access by Car
- From Hokuriku Expressway Kanazawa West IC: Approximately 20 minutes
- Parking: Dedicated parking available (limited number of spaces)
Visiting Hours
- Open to Visitors: The shrine grounds are always open
- Shrine Office: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (may vary depending on the season)
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Major tourist attractions in Kanazawa are concentrated within walking distance of Oyama Shrine.
- Kanazawa Castle Park: 5-minute walk
- Kenrokuen Garden: 10-minute walk
- Nagamachi Samurai District: 5-minute walk
- Omicho Market: 10-minute walk
This shrine is a must-visit as a base for sightseeing in Kanazawa.
