Jinguashi Shrine (Kinkaseki Shrine) Introduction
Jinguashi Shrine was established on March 2, 1898, during the Meiji era. It was built by the mining operator Tanaka Nageyoshi (Tanaka Group) in response to the fears among workers due to the frequent presence of bandits at the onset of the Jinguashi mining business. To provide reassurance, the shrine was constructed at the eastern end of Jinguashi Main Mountain. On April 8, 1936, Taiwan Mining Company invested in the reconstruction of the shrine to make Jinguashi Shrine the center of faith for mining workers and the only park in the mining area, planting ornamental plants and setting up resting areas. The renovated shrine was completed on July 15, 1937. Jinguashi Shrine is dedicated to the deities Okuninushi, Kanayamaguchihiko, and Sarutahiko. During the Japanese colonial period, a grand mountain god festival was held every year on July 15. The original structures of the shrine included the main hall, worship hall, and a purification fountain, with a pathway leading up the steps adorned with three torii gates, five flagpoles, and a bronze cow at the entrance. Unfortunately, the shrine buildings were damaged after the war, and today only two torii gates, a few stone lanterns, and the foundation and columns of the shrine remain. Visitors can also enjoy the beauty of Dadu Mountain (Keelung Mountain) and Teapot Mountain, and further along the shrine trail, they can reach the Shihkeng Ruins and Geological Park.
