Our Journey Through Kanazawa’s Rich History at Oyama Shrine

During our visit to Kanazawa, a city soaked in tradition and history, we kicked off our adventures with a morning stroll to Oyama Shrine. It was a quick walk from our hotel—no more than 10 minutes—through quaint, narrow lanes that felt like stepping back in time.

Right in the heart of Kanazawa, Oyama Shrine is more than just a cultural landmark; it’s a storybook of Japan’s rich heritage, waiting to be opened. Founded in 1599, this shrine originally honored Maeda Toshiie, the first lord of the Kaga Domain and a key figure in the region’s history. What’s cool about this place is that it’s not just stuck in one spot in history. It started on Utatsu-yama but got a new home in 1873, right where we visited.

Now, let’s talk about the main gate. This isn’t your average shrine gate. Built in 1875, it’s a stunning mix of Japanese, Chinese, and European architectural styles and stands proudly at 25 meters tall. It’s not just big; it’s beautifully detailed. The third floor, topped with Dutch stained-glass windows, supposedly served as a lighthouse once, helping guide ships to the nearby port. This little nugget of history highlights Kanazawa’s past as a bustling trade center during the Edo period.

Wandering through this gate feels like walking through a portal to another era. Each carving and stained-glass panel tells its own tale, crafted by artisans whose skills have spanned generations. It’s like they left little pieces of their stories for us to find.

The shrine grounds themselves are a peaceful retreat from the outside world. They’re home to several smaller shrines where visitors can pay respects or just sit and soak in the tranquility. It’s a perfect spot to pause and reflect, surrounded by the soft whispers of history and nature.

The connection to the Maeda clan doesn’t end with just the shrine. Just a short walk away, the Maeda Toshiie and Maeda Toshinaga Memorial Hall dives deep into the lives and legacies of these historical figures, giving us a clearer picture of how they shaped Kanazawa.

Oyama Shrine is more than just a stop on a tourist map; it’s a journey through time. The iconic gate with its eclectic design and the serene sanctuary behind it invite everyone to explore the depth of Kanazawa’s cultural roots. It’s fascinating how this shrine encapsulates both the spiritual and the historical, intertwining them so elegantly.

After spending several hours at the shrine, taking countless photos and just enjoying the vibe, it was clear why Oyama Shrine stands out. It’s not just about being old or beautiful; it’s a place where you can really feel connected to the past while fully present in the moment. We continued our exploration to Kanazawa Castle Park and Kenroku-en on foot after leaving the shrine. If you are planning your Kanazawa adventure, be sure to read our guide, ‘Two Perfect Days in Kanazawa,’ to make the most of your visit!

So, if you ever find yourself in Kanazawa, make sure to put Oyama Shrine on your list. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or just in need of some peace, this place has something for everyone. Walking through Oyama Shrine, we didn’t just learn about Kanazawa’s history—we felt part of it. And that’s something we’ll carry with us long after our journey continues.