Ōura Catholic Church

Ōura Catholic Church

Built in 1864 and officially named "Church of the 26 Martyrs of Japan," Ōura Catholic Church is the only Western-style building among all Japanese national treasures. Located in Minamiyamate, Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan, it is said to have been constructed by two French priests, Fournier and Ferre, as a place for prayer for the 26 saints martyred on Nishizaka Hill, which is why its façade faces toward Nishizaka.

The church is designed in the Gothic style, a representative style of medieval European architecture. It is the oldest surviving wooden church structure in Japan and was designated a national treasure in 1933. The interior features approximately 100-year-old French stained glass windows. Although most were sadly severely damaged in the atomic bombing, some restored stained glass pieces remain. Sunlight streaming through the glass not only illuminates the church but also enhances the sense of sacred space within.

The area known as Hollander Slope to the north of the church also retains many Western-style buildings, along with an ancient stone-paved road that exudes historical charm. It is believed that worshippers once walked this path to attend services at the church.

Ōura Church

Must-visit reason: The only Western-style building among Japan’s national treasures

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia【Asia】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Japan[Japan]

Prefecture/State where the attraction is located: Nagasaki Prefecture [Nagasaki Prefecture]

City where the attraction is located: Nagasaki [Nagasaki]