Oyama Jinja

Map

History & Origins

It was founded in 1873 (the 6th year of Meiji) by former domain retainers to enshrine Maeda Toshiie, founder of the Kaga domain. Maeda Toshiie was a warlord who served Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi and laid the foundation of the Kaga Hyakumangoku domain that governed Kanazawa. Maeda Toshinaga and Maeda Toshitsune are also enshrined alongside him in the grounds.

Highlights

The shrine gate, completed in 1875, is famous as a pseudo-Western-style building with Japan's oldest lightning rod. Its unusual design, a timber-framed brick structure incorporating colorful stained glass, is said to have once served as a lighthouse at night. It is designated an Important Cultural Property.

Visitor Guide

Take the Jokamachi Kanazawa Loop Bus from JR Kanazawa Station and get off at 'Minamicho/Oyama Jinja,' right next to the shrine. Alternatively, it is about a 15-minute walk. It is close to the site of Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen, making it convenient to visit as part of Kanazawa sightseeing.

Best Season

Visiting on the annual festival of April 27 (the anniversary of Maeda Toshiie's death) is atmospheric. The mid-June Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival also brings the whole castle town to life.

Blessings

Annual Events

• April

  Reisai (Annual Festival)

  The most important annual festival, held on April 27, the anniversary of the death of Lord Maeda Toshiie. Prayers are offered in thanks to the domain's founder and for prosperity.

• June

  Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Matsuri (Kanazawa Million-Koku Festival)

  A grand festival held in mid-June across the whole Kanazawa castle town. A warrior procession and various traditional events are held.

Travel Plan

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