Nagasaki’s Hidden Christian Sites: Faith, History & Hope in Japan ⛪🇯🇵

Discover Nagasaki’s hidden history and beauty!

Nagasaki is a city of faith, resilience, and cultural heritage, home to some of Japan’s most significant Christian sites. From centuries of hidden worship to symbols of hope and perseverance, here are three must-visit sites that tell the story of Christianity in Japan.

Oura Church
Built in 1864, Oura Church is Japan’s oldest surviving wooden church and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It became a powerful symbol of the hidden Christians (Kakure Kirishitan), who practiced their faith in secret during centuries of persecution. The church’s stunning Gothic architecture and rich history make it a must-visit.
📍Address: 5-3 Minamiyamatemachi, Nagasaki 850-0931, Japan

Urakami Cathedral
Once the largest church in East Asia, Urakami Cathedral was tragically destroyed in the 1945 atomic bombing. Rebuilt in 1959, it now stands as a symbol of resilience and the enduring faith of the people of Nagasaki. Visitors can see remnants of the original structure and a striking bronze statue of the Virgin Mary, which survived the blast.
📍Address: 1-79 Motoomachi, Nagasaki 852-8112, Japan

26 Martyrs Museum & Monument
In 1597, 26 Christians—both Japanese and foreign missionaries—were executed in Nagasaki for their faith. The 26 Martyrs Monument honors their legacy, and the museum displays historical artifacts, letters, and documents detailing the history of Christianity in Japan.
📍Address: 7-8 Nishizakamachi, Nagasaki 850-0051, Japan

Directions from Tokyo
✈️ By Air:
🚉 Tokyo ⇒ ✈️ Flight to Nagasaki Airport (2h) ⇒ 🚍 Airport Bus to Nagasaki Station (45min)
🚄 By Train:
🚉 Tokyo ⇒ 🚄 Shinkansen to Hakata (5h) ⇒ 🚃 Limited Express Kamome to Nagasaki (2h)

Nagasaki’s Christian heritage is a moving testament to faith and perseverance. Save this post and add these sacred sites to your Japan itinerary! 🇯🇵⛪✨

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