Kanazawa Shrine
A serene shrine dedicated to learning and protection, known for its unique White Snake Dragon God and beautiful Goshuin.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy peace before crowds arrive.
Kanazawa Shrine
Best Time
Enjoy peace before crowds arrive.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene shrine dedicated to learning and protection, known for its unique White Snake Dragon God and beautiful Goshuin.
"A beautiful, small shrine with a unique deity and a priest who strikes up conversation."
🎯 Bow at the Torii Gate
Show respect by bowing before passing through the torii gate, marking the sacred entrance.
💧 Perform Temizu Ritual
Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin before entering the shrine.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
White Snake Dragon God
Main sanctuary
Dedicated to a deity believed to protect against misfortune and bring good fortune. A unique aspect of this shrine.
Sugawara no Michizane
Main sanctuary
Honoring the god of learning, making it a place for students and scholars seeking blessings.
Goshuin Collection
Shrine office
Collect a unique, handwritten Goshuin (temple seal) with gold foil, a beautiful souvenir.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Shrine Etiquette
Kanazawa's Tranquil Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bow at the Torii Gate
Show respect by bowing before passing through the torii gate, marking the sacred entrance. +1
💧 Perform Temizu Ritual
Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin before entering the shrine. +1
💰 Cash for Goshuin
Goshuin typically cost ¥300-¥500 and can only be paid for with cash.
🚶♀️ Combine with Kenrokuen
Easily accessible from Kenrokuen Garden; exit via the plum garden for a seamless visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bow at the Torii Gate
Show respect by bowing before passing through the torii gate, marking the sacred entrance. +1
💧 Perform Temizu Ritual
Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin before entering the shrine. +1
💰 Cash for Goshuin
Goshuin typically cost ¥300-¥500 and can only be paid for with cash.
🚶♀️ Combine with Kenrokuen
Easily accessible from Kenrokuen Garden; exit via the plum garden for a seamless visit.
✨ Unique Goshuincho
Exclusive Goshuincho (stamp books) and covers are available for purchase here.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Kanazawa Shrine to be a pleasant and peaceful site, particularly appreciated for its unique dedication to the White Snake Dragon God and its proximity to Kenrokuen Garden. The opportunity to collect a beautiful, handwritten Goshuin with gold foil is a highlight for many. While some find it less grand than other major shrines, the personal interactions and serene atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop.
"The main deity enshrined here is Sugawara no Michizane, known as the god of learning. Additionally, it also honors the White Snake Dragon God, a deity of protection from misfortune and good fortune, and Inari Daimyojin, the god of prosperous business."
Mookie Betts
"nice shrine just next to 兼六園. you can plan for the route inside the park and then exit from 隨身坂口 (next to the plum garden) to go there."
beergal hkwriter
"Very nice shrine but not as interesting if compared to the other major shrines in Kanazawa. Regardless, I enjoyed the visit. The priest struck up conversation with me despite the language barrier we had. He explained how to hand my goshuincho to him. The goshuin is handwritten and has some gold foil. Really beautiful! You’ll find exclusive goshuincho and covers for them too. It wasn’t busy when I came on a Thursday."
Susan Ho
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kanazawa Shrine is conveniently located next to Kenrokuen Garden. You can easily access it by exiting Kenrokuen Garden from the plum garden exit. It's also a great addition to a day exploring the garden and surrounding areas.
Yes, it's situated within the grounds or adjacent to Kenrokuen Garden, a major landmark. Look for the distinctive torii gates.
Kanazawa is well-served by public transport. From Kanazawa Station, you can take a loop bus or local bus routes that stop near Kenrokuen Garden.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Kanazawa Shrine itself is generally free. However, if you plan to visit the adjacent Kenrokuen Garden, there is an admission fee.
Shrine grounds are typically open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check specific hours closer to your visit, though it's usually accessible during daylight.
The shrine grounds are free to enter. However, the adjacent Kenrokuen Garden has an admission fee.
Yes, you can collect a beautiful, handwritten Goshuin here, often featuring gold foil. You'll need to purchase a Goshuincho (stamp book) if you don't have one.
Goshuin typically cost between ¥300 to ¥500 and can only be paid for with cash.
🎫 ⛩️ Onsite Experience
The shrine primarily enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. It also honors the White Snake Dragon God for protection from misfortune and good fortune, and Inari Daimyojin for prosperous business.
This deity is believed to offer protection from misfortune and bring good fortune to worshippers.
Visitors are encouraged to show respect by bowing at the torii gate and performing the temizu (purification ritual) at the water basin before approaching the main hall. +3
Compared to major shrines in cities like Kyoto, Kanazawa Shrine is generally less crowded, especially on weekdays.
Its dedication to the White Snake Dragon God and its location within a historically significant garden setting make it a distinctive spiritual site. The availability of exclusive Goshuincho also adds to its appeal.
📸 📸 Photography
The torii gates, the main sanctuary, and the surrounding garden areas offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The unique Goshuincho designs are also visually appealing.
Generally, photography is allowed on the shrine grounds, but it's always respectful to avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer times or ceremonies.
You can photograph your own Goshuin as a memento, but avoid photographing other people's Goshuin or the process of writing without permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind the temizu ritual might be a fun, hands-on experience for older children to try with supervision. While the shrine itself is peaceful, the garden offers more freedom for younger ones. Remember to bring cash for any small souvenirs or Goshuin if your children are interested.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with the adjacent Kenrokuen Garden, which has a modest entrance fee, or focus on exploring the free-to-enter geisha districts. Collecting a Goshuin is an affordable way to get a unique souvenir for ¥300-¥500, provided you have cash.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For a unique shot, focus on the Goshuin itself, particularly the versions with gold foil, or capture the intricate details of the Goshuincho. The shrine's tranquil atmosphere, especially on weekdays, allows for unhurried photography sessions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Shrine Etiquette
Upon entering, you'll often find a temizuya (water basin). This is for ritual purification. Using the provided ladle, first rinse your left hand, then your right hand. Next, pour water into your cupped left hand to rinse your mouth (spit the water out beside the basin, not back into it). Finally, rinse your left hand again and then tilt the ladle vertically to let the remaining water run down the handle, purifying it.
When approaching the main hall, you may see a bell. Ringing it is often done to alert the deities of your presence before offering a prayer. The typical prayer involves bowing twice, clapping your hands twice, offering your prayer, and then bowing once more.
The Art of Goshuin Collection
When you arrive at Kanazawa Shrine, you can present your Goshuincho at the designated office. The Goshuin here is particularly special, often featuring handwritten calligraphy and gold foil, making it a visually stunning keepsake.
Kanazawa Shrine also offers exclusive Goshuincho and covers, which can be a great addition if you're starting your collection or looking for a unique design.
Kanazawa: A Quieter Alternative
Travelers often praise Kanazawa for its ability to provide an authentic Japanese experience without the overwhelming tourist presence. This allows for a more relaxed exploration of its attractions, including its beautiful shrines and gardens. Waking up early can further enhance this peaceful experience, allowing you to enjoy the city's beauty before the day-trippers arrive.
Kanazawa Shrine, being a smaller and less frequented site compared to some of the major attractions in other cities, perfectly embodies this serene spirit. It offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with Japanese culture in a more intimate setting.
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