Ōno Church, Catholic church in Ōno Village, Nagasaki, Japan
Ōno Church is a stone and wood structure with brick window arches and walls made from local basalt mixed with red soil and lime. The building stands with a simple form that uses materials sourced from the surrounding region.
Built in 1893 by architect Marc Marie de Rotz, this church initially served Christian families in the area as a secondary location to Shitsu Church. It emerged during a period when Christian communities in the region could resume public practice.
The building shows how European and Japanese building styles meet through its tile roof and local construction methods that reflect community craftsmanship. You can see this blend yourself by observing how the structure combines features from both traditions.
To visit this church, arrange access beforehand by contacting the Hidden Christian Sites Information Centre, as this is a protected Cultural Property. Planning ahead ensures you can see the building when you arrive.
The building uses a specialized wall construction that functions as a vertical windbreak, incorporating regional materials for added stability. This practical design solution shows how local conditions and architecture work together.
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