Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region

The Hidden Christian Sites include twelve preserved locations across Nagasaki Prefecture and Kumamoto Prefecture, featuring churches, villages, and sacred places.

During the Edo period from 1614 to 1873, Japanese Christians practiced their faith secretly due to governmental persecution and strict anti-Christian laws.

The architectural elements of these locations demonstrate the fusion between Japanese construction techniques and Western religious design principles.

Visitors can reach multiple sites through organized tours departing from Nagasaki city center, with English language guides available by reservation.

The Oura Cathedral holds distinction as the first Western-style cathedral in Japan, where hidden Christians revealed their faith to French priests in 1865.

Location: Nagasaki Prefecture

Location: Amakusa

Website: https://kirishitan.jp

GPS coordinates: 32.80222,128.90389

Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:33