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Located in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, Oura Church is a World Cultural Heritage site that played an important role in Japan’s Christian history. Built with the opening of Japan at the end of the Edo period, it is known as the oldest Catholic church in Japan. The beautiful Gothic style architecture, the oldest Gothic building in Japan, and the historic event of the “Discovery of Hidden Christians”. This article will provide detailed information on the historical significance, highlights, and access to Oura Church.
Oura Church, located in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, is the oldest Catholic church in Japan and a national treasure designated as a World Cultural Heritage site. This sacred place played an important role in Nagasaki’s Christian history, and its beautiful Gothic architecture and deep historical background continue to attract many tourists.
Oura Church is dedicated to the 26 Martyrs of Japan who were martyred in Nagasaki in 1597. The 26 Martyrs of Japan were six Spanish missionaries, three Mexican missionaries, and 17 Japanese believers who were martyred for their faith during the Christian persecution under Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
The 26 Martyrs of Japan were canonized by Pope Pius IX in 1862. “Canonization” is the formal recognition by the Catholic Church of a person as a saint due to their martyrdom or virtuous life.
The front of Oura Church faces Nishizaka Hill (now Nishizaka Park), where they were executed, and it reflects the respect and strong faith towards the martyrs.
Oura Church was built for the foreign residents of the Nagasaki settlement with the opening of Japan at the end of the Edo period.
Completed in 1864, Oura Church was consecrated in February of the following year. In March, hidden Christians from Urakami visited the church and confessed their faith, making it the stage for the significant event in Japanese Christian history known as the “Discovery of Hidden Christians”.
The church underwent expansions in 1875 and 1879, changing its floor plan and exterior design from wood to brick. However, the main parts of the Oura Church sanctuary remain as they were.
Designated as a national treasure in 1933, it was re-designated as a national treasure in 1953 after repairs from damage caused by the atomic bomb.
During the Edo period, under the Tokugawa shogunate’s policy of banning Christianity, Christians were forced to live in hiding to avoid persecution. Hidden Christians pretended to be Buddhists on the surface while secretly maintaining their Christian faith.
On March 17, 1865, hidden Christians from Urakami visited Oura Church and revealed to Father Petitjean that they were Christians. This event is known as the “Discovery of Hidden Christians”. After years of repression and secret faith, hidden Christians were finally able to publicly declare their faith.
The Discovery of Hidden Christians marked a turning point in Japanese Christian history. The existence of hidden Christians, who had been living in secret, was revealed, exposing the contradictions in the shogunate’s policy of banning Christianity. This event had a significant impact on Japanese society at the end of the Edo period, increasing interest in religious freedom.
The Discovery of Hidden Christians was also an important event for the global Catholic Church. Despite years of persecution, the existence of Christians in Japan was revealed, highlighting the importance of missionary work in Japan.
Oura Church adopts the Gothic style, representative of medieval European architecture. It is the oldest existing Gothic building in Japan. The front of the church is built facing Nishizaka, the site of martyrdom.
The church’s design was by French missionaries Fathers Furet and Petitjean, with construction by Shūshin Koyama from Amakusa.
Its distinctive exterior attracts many tourists. Some of the stained glass windows in the sanctuary are over 100 years old, offering a sense of historical beauty. Additionally, the sanctuary houses numerous statues of the Virgin Mary and Christ, creating a solemn atmosphere that touches the hearts of visitors.
The Museum of the Hidden Christians, attached to Oura Church, is a must-see spot for a deeper understanding of the history of Christianity in Nagasaki. The museum showcases valuable materials and exhibits detailing the relationship between Nagasaki and Christianity since the 16th century.
After Christianity was introduced to Japan, Nagasaki became one of its central locations. However, with the start of the Edo period, the shogunate’s policy of banning Christianity led to severe persecution for believers. The Museum of the Hidden Christians provides insight into the faith and life of hidden Christians during the prohibition period through relics and records of the time.
The museum also features exhibits on the history and architecture of Oura Church. Architectural fans will not want to miss the design drawings and materials used in the construction of Oura Church, known as Japan’s oldest Gothic-style church.
Admission to the Museum of the Hidden Christians is included in the entrance fee to Oura Church, so visitors can explore without paying an additional fee. Whether you are interested in the history of Christianity in Nagasaki or history and culture in general, the Museum of the Hidden Christians offers a valuable learning experience and a new perspective on Nagasaki.
When visiting Oura Church, it’s important to keep a few points in mind. First, photography is prohibited inside Oura Church and the Museum of the Hidden Christians. This measure is to maintain the sacred atmosphere and not disturb the prayers and meditation of worshippers. Please take your memories home with you in your heart.
Also, remember that Oura Church is still an active place of worship. During masses and when people are praying, please observe quietly. Avoid loud conversations and inappropriate attire as a matter of respect.
Oura Church is over 150 years old, so there are areas that are not barrier-free, such as steep stairs and uneven floors. Pay close attention when climbing stairs. If you have difficulty walking or are with small children, please take care and visit with a companion.
The grounds of Oura Church are not very large, so it can become crowded during peak times. Weekends, holidays, and long vacation periods tend to attract more visitors, so if you prefer a quieter visit, consider going on weekdays.
By keeping these points in mind, you can fully appreciate the historical and cultural value of Oura Church. It will surely be a memorable and valuable experience.
The most recommended way to access Oura Church is by tram and walking.
The route from Oura Church Station to Oura Church includes “Glover Street”, lined with souvenir shops and restaurants. It’s great for sightseeing and offers a wonderful atmosphere with views of the hilly areas and the sea.
It’s only a 5-minute walk from the station, so considering the parking issues mentioned next, taking the tram and walking to Oura Church is highly recommended.
The area around Oura Church is hilly and has limited parking. With Glover Garden nearby, parking can be full, so it’s generally recommended to avoid visiting by car.
Additionally, due to these circumstances, private parking fees are relatively high at 500 yen per hour. However, for reference, 500 yen per hour is a common rate in tourist areas across Japan.
There is a pay parking lot called “Forest Rain Time Parking” near Oura Church, but there have been many reports of users being verbally abused by the manager. If you want a peaceful visit, avoid this parking lot. (For details, refer to the Google reviews)
Additionally, the following privately owned parking lots are not recommended due to poor service and the need to hand over your car keys, which increases the risk:
So, where is the best place to park?
The closest and recommended parking lot is Glover Garden Parking Lot. The fee is 200 yen per 30 minutes (400 yen per hour).
This parking lot is the closest to Oura Church and Glover Garden, so the price is justified. Additionally, the view from the parking lot is excellent, as it is located on a hill.
If you don’t mind walking a bit to save on parking fees, consider using a municipal parking lot.
Among these, the Nagasaki City Matsugae-cho No. 2 Parking Lot is recommended as it is near Oura Church Station, allowing you to enjoy Glover Street as well.
Honestly, instead of desperately searching for a good parking lot, parking near Oura Church Station is recommended. The distance is not far enough to justify the time spent driving around unfamiliar narrow streets.
Oura Church in Nagasaki is more than just a tourist attraction. It is a place embodying the long history of faith and prayers for peace.
Oura Church played a significant role in Japan’s Christian history as the stage for the “Discovery of Hidden Christians”, an act of courage by hidden Christians. Their strong faith teaches us the value of freedom and peace.
Also, known as the oldest Gothic-style building in Japan, Oura Church is a precious heritage that tells the story of Nagasaki’s history and culture. Its beautiful presence attracts and quietly impresses visitors.
Through learning at the Museum of the Hidden Christians, we can deeply appreciate Nagasaki’s historical depth. Reflecting on the thoughts of the hidden Christians who survived the prohibition period, we in modern times can also reaffirm the value of peace.
Visiting Oura Church and touching its history and beauty can lead us to introspect and renew our wishes for peace.
Oura Church continues to quietly tell the story of sorrow and hope engraved in Nagasaki. Please experience it with all your senses.
