Temple preserves WWII-era soldier portraits

KANAZAWA — Seventy-seven years a er World War II, a Kanazawa temple continues to look a er about 300 photos of soldiers that their mothers le with the temple to pray for their safety.

Shinjoji temple is dedicated to Kishimojin, the goddess of childbirth. People o en leave baby photos at the temple to pray for the healthy growth of their children.

During the war, many mothers le photos of soldiers at the temple, praying for the safe return of sons who had joined the war e ort. Many of the portraits include the names and ages of the soldiers and the dates the photos were le at the temple. Some also include tragic poems that express anticipation of death in battle.

“inking about the sorrow of the fallen soldiers and their mothers, I want to make a pledge of peace,” said the temple’s chief priest. (Aug. 14)

Photos of soldiers that were left at Shinjoji temple in Kanazawa during World War II