San Juan Bautista

San Juan Bautista is a replica of an early 17th-century galleon moored in the port of Ishinomaki. The structure is made of modern fiberglass-reinforced plastic and features three tall masts and multiple decks that give visitors insight into the construction of historical sailing ships.

A Japanese feudal lord commissioned a sailing ship in 1613 for an embassy voyage to Mexico and Europe. The current reconstruction was built centuries later and renewed in more durable material following the 2011 earthquake.

This vessel carries the name of Saint John the Baptist and represents the diplomatic exchange between Japan and Spain during the early 1600s. Today it serves as a museum where visitors can trace how European and Japanese maritime traditions met.

Access to the museum is through the harbor area, and the visit includes multiple decks with exhibition spaces. Information panels in several languages help visitors understand the technical details and maritime history.

The original wooden reconstruction did not survive the earthquake intact, so a replica made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic was chosen. This change in material guarantees longer lifespan and lower maintenance while preserving the historical shape.