Nishizaka Hill is the site where Christians were first executed by the ruling authorities in Japan, marking the beginning of Christian persecution in the country. It is home to a monument honoring their faith and the Museum of the 26 Martyrs of Japan, which displays relics, historical artifacts, and the history of Christianity in Japan.

The museum provides a clear and engaging explanation of Christianity and Hidden Christians in Nagasaki, making it an ideal starting point for your journey.

Admission Fees:

- Adults: ¥500

- High School and Junior High School Students: ¥300

- Elementary School Students: ¥150

*As of December 1, 2024. Please refer to the official website for more details.

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Nakamachi Church is nearby and within walking distance.

The Catholic Nakamachi Church is a historically significant Catholic church located in Nagasaki City, originally built in 1897. Although it was destroyed by fire in the atomic bombing of 1945, leaving only the outer walls and spire intact, it was rebuilt in 1951 and still retains its beautiful appearance today.

Inside the church, a replica of the "Smiling Cross," associated with St. Francis Xavier, is displayed, leaving a profound impression on visitors. Additionally, the grounds feature a monument dedicated to St. Thomas Nishi and 15 martyrs, offering a glimpse into the history of Christianity in Nagasaki.

Admission: Free (*Donations are appreciated via the offering box.)

*As of December 1, 2024. Please refer to the official website for more details.

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From Nakamachi Church to the St. Kolbe Museum, it takes approx. 10 minutes and costs about 1,500 yen per taxi.

The St. Kolbe Memorial Museum is located on the grounds of the Immaculate Garden Monastery, established in 1931 in Hongouchi, Nagasaki, by Father Maximilian Maria Kolbe from Poland.

The Museum features exhibits such as the "Room of St. Kolbe," restored to its original condition, the priest's liturgical vestments, his handwritten diaries, and materials related to the Auschwitz concentration camp. Through these displays, visitors can learn about Father Kolbe's life, his activities in Nagasaki, and his profound faith and love.

Admission: Free (*Donations are appreciated via the offering box.)

*As of December 1, 2024. Please refer to the official website for more details.

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From St. Kolbe Museum to a restaurant, it takes approx. 5 minutes and costs about 1,000 yen per taxi.

Let's enjoy lunch at a local restaurant!

* Lunch is approximately ¥1,000 to ¥1,500.

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From the restaurant to Ōura Cathedral:

-> On foot and by tram: 150 yen per ride, about 45 minutes

-> By taxi: around 2,000 yen per vehicle, about 15 minutes

Ōura Cathedral, built in 1864 by French missionaries, is the oldest surviving wooden church in Japan and has been designated as a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. Known for its stunning Gothic architecture, it gained global recognition as the site of the "Discovery of Hidden Christians," where believers revealed their faith during the era of Christian persecution. It is a symbolic landmark of Nagasaki's Christian history and attracts numerous visitors from around the world.

Admission Fees:

- Adults: ¥1,000

- Junior High and High School Students: ¥400

- Elementary School Students: ¥300

*As of December 1, 2024. Please refer to the official website for more details.

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From the restaurant to Ōura Cathedral to Urakami Cathedral

-> On foot and by tram: 150 yen per ride, about 45 minutes

-> By taxi: around 2,500 yen per vehicle, about 20 minutes

Urakami Cathedral was built by the people of Urakami, who inherited the faith of Hidden Christians. Completed in 1914, it was said to have been the largest church in East Asia at the time, but it suffered catastrophic damage from the atomic bombing in 1945. The cathedral was rebuilt in 1959 and stands in its present form today. On its grounds, remnants of the bombing and restored stained glass windows can be found, serving as a symbol of peace and faith that attracts many visitors.

To reach Urakami cathedral, you can take a tram and then walk.

The tram fare is 140 yen per person.

Admission: Free (*Donations are appreciated via the offering box.)

*As of December 1, 2024. Please refer to the official website for more details.