Nakaenoshima

Nakaenoshima sits 2 kilometers offshore from Kasuga settlement, measuring 400 meters in length and 50 meters in width along the northwestern coast of Hirado.

In 1622, Christians faced persecution on this island under the Matsura clan's rule, marking it as a significant location in Japanese religious persecution history.

Local Hidden Christians performed sacred water collection rituals on the island, gathering water that seeped through the rocks as part of their religious practices.

The island remains inaccessible to visitors, but private charter boats operate from Hirado port, allowing visitors to view it from the water.

Locals refer to the island by three different names: Sanjuwan-sama, Gosantai-sama, and Omukae-sama, reflecting its religious significance in the community.

Location: Hirado

Part of: Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region, Cultural landscape in Hirado island

GPS coordinates: 33.37327,129.46512

Latest update: March 3, 2025 10:15