The Historical Beauty of Oyama Shrine's Stained Glass Gate

During my visit to Kanazawa, I made a special trip to Oyama Shrine, a historical site that blends Eastern and Western architectural styles. This shrine is dedicated to Maeda Toshiie, a renowned lord of the Kaga Domain. The most striking feature is the "Shinmon" gate at the entrance, which is constructed with brick and stone and adorned with vibrant stained glass on its top floor. The gate resembles a church, and when sunlight streams through the glass, it feels as though you've stepped into a portal through time. The shrine's garden is elegant and tranquil, with stone bridges and ponds reflecting the brilliance of the gate, adding a sense of historical depth and serenity. Built in 1875, the gate is considered a prime example of modern Japanese-Western hybrid architecture and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. This is not just a place for worship but also a window into a dialogue between Meiji-era aesthetics and European architectural beauty. 📍 Location: Oyama Shrine (11-1 Oyama-machi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture)