Oyama Shrine, Kanazawa

#japantrip Oyama Shrine is a beautiful and historic place in Kanazawa, dedicated to Maeda Toshiie, the first lord of Kaga. It was first built in 1599 and moved to its current location in 1873. The most interesting feature is its tall main gate (82 ft / 25 m), built in 1875, which is a mix of Japanese, Chinese, and European styles. The Dutch stained-glass windows make it stand out, and some believe the top floor was once used as a lighthouse. The shrine itself has a traditional wooden design, and inside, you can see a palanquin (carriage) with samurai weapons. There’s also a small, peaceful garden, a great spot to relax before heading to Kenroku-en or Kanazawa Castle Ruins. We visited while it was snowing, which made the place even more magical. The blend of Western and Asian architecture is impressive both from a distance and up close. Definitely worth a visit! ChatGPT can make mistakes. Check important info.