About Ishiura Shrine
Ishiura Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Hondamachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, and is known as the oldest shrine in Kanazawa City. Its founding is ancient; according to shrine tradition, it was founded in 547 (the 8th year of Emperor Kinmei’s reign) as Miwa Shrine, and is believed to have existed as early as the 700s during the Nara period.
In 1880 (Meiji 13), it was relocated to its current location southeast of Kenrokuen Garden. It was deeply revered by the Maeda family, the lords of the Kaga Domain, and has long been worshipped as the local guardian deity.
Benefits and Deities
Main Benefits
Ishiura Shrine is particularly known for its benefits in matchmaking and bringing good fortune.
- Matchmaking: Good relationships and successful romance
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: Improved career and financial luck
- Family Safety: Health and happiness for the family
- Exorcism: Protection from disasters and traffic safety
Deity
The main deity is Ōmononushi-no-Ōkami, considered the gentle spirit (nigimitama) of Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, and worshipped as the god of matchmaking and business prosperity.
Points to Note When Visiting
Kimachan’s Ema (Votive Tablets)
A popular spot at Ishiura Shrine is the ema featuring the official character, Kimachan. Kimachan is a cute character modeled after the guardian lion-dogs (komainu) of the shrine. You can write your wishes on the colorful ema and dedicate them. It’s popular with young visitors for its Instagrammable appearance.
Colorful Amulets
Ishiura Shrine offers a wide variety of colorful and modern amulets that defy the traditional image of shrines. These amulets, featuring polka dots and stripes, are fashionable and particularly popular among female visitors.
Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
In addition to regular goshuin, seasonal special goshuin are also available. As one of the shrines visited during a pilgrimage around Kenrokuen Garden, many visitors come specifically to collect goshuin.
Major Annual Festivals
Ishiura Shrine holds numerous festivals throughout the year.
- January 1st: New Year’s Day Festival (First Shrine Visit of the Year)
- February (Setsubun): Setsubun Festival
- April: Spring Grand Festival
- July: Summer Purification Ceremony
- September: Autumn Grand Festival
- November: Shichi-Go-San Festival
- December: Year-End Purification Ceremony
Especially during the spring and autumn grand festivals, the shrine is bustling with activity, including a procession of portable shrines by local parishioners.
Access and Visiting Information
Location
3-1-30 Hondamachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture 920-0935
Access Methods
By Bus
- Get off at the “Hirosaka/21st Century Museum” bus stop on the Hokutetsu Bus, approximately 5 minutes on foot.
- Get off at the “Hirosaka/21st Century Museum” bus stop on the Kanazawa Castle Town Loop Bus/Kenrokuen Shuttle Bus, approximately 5 minutes on foot.
On Foot
- Approximately 25 minutes on foot from JR Kanazawa Station.
- Approximately 3 minutes on foot from the Katsurazaka entrance of Kenrokuen Garden.
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa.
By Car
- Approximately 20 minutes from the “Kanazawa-Nishi IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway.
- Private parking available (limited number of spaces).
Visiting Hours
- Grounds are open 24 hours.
- Shrine office: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (may vary depending on the season).
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Located directly across from Kenrokuen Garden, it attracts many tourists who combine their visit with a visit to Kenrokuen. The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art, and Kanazawa Castle Park are also within walking distance.
Summary
Ishiura Shrine, while boasting the oldest history in Kanazawa, is a friendly shrine that incorporates modern sensibilities, making it beloved by both locals and tourists. It’s a must-visit spot when sightseeing at Kenrokuen Garden.
