Jinguashi Shrine (Golden Shrine) Introduction
Jinguashi Shrine was established on March 2, 1898, during the Meiji period (31st year). It was built by Tanaka Chobei (Tanaka Group), the mine operator, in response to the frequent presence of bandits at the beginning of the Jinguashi mining business, which made the employees uneasy. To stabilize public sentiment, the shrine was constructed at the eastern end of the Jinguashi main mountain. On April 8, 1936, the Taiwan Mining Co. invested in rebuilding the shrine to make it the center of faith for the mining workers and the only park in the mining area, by renovating the shrine and planting ornamental plants, as well as setting up resting places. The renovated shrine was completed on July 15, 1937. The Jinguashi Shrine is dedicated to the deities Okuninushi no Mikoto, Kanayama-hiko no Mikoto, and Sarutahiko no Mikoto. During the Japanese occupation period, a grand mountain god festival was held annually on July 15 in summer. The original architecture of the shrine included the main hall, worship hall, purification station, and the approach leading up the stairs, flanked by three torii gates, five flagpoles, and a bronze cow at the entrance. Unfortunately, the shrine's structures were damaged after the war, and today only two torii gates, a few stone lanterns, and the foundations and pillars of the shrine remain. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful views of Mount Datou (Keelung Mountain) and Teapot Mountain, and by continuing along the shrine trail, one can reach the Four Pit Ruins and the geological park.
