Oura Cathedral was built in 1865 by French missionary Father Bernard Petitjean and dedicated to the Twenty-Six Martyrs of Japan, who were crucified in Nagasaki in 1597. This Gothic-style church is the oldest surviving Catholic church in Japan. Shortly after its completion, it became famous for revealing the "hidden Christians" (Kakure Kirishitan) from Urakami village, who secretly maintained their faith for over 250 years while Christianity was banned in Japan. This discovery is known as the “Miracle of the Orient,” demonstrating the resilience of faith through centuries of persecution.

Architecturally, the church features imported stained glass from France, creating a sacred and beautiful interior. Although many original windows were damaged during the atomic bombing, surviving pieces have been carefully restored. Oura Cathedral is the only Western-style building in Japan designated as a National Treasure. In 2018, it became part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region.”

• Take the Nagasaki Electric Tramway and get off at Ōura Tenshudō-shita (Oura Catholic Church) stop. Walk up the hill along the same route to Glover Garden. The walk takes approximately 5–7 minutes.

• Best Time to Visit: Morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.

• Footwear/Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes as the route involves walking uphill.

• Nearby Attractions: Don’t miss the Hidden Christian Museum nearby, which offers deeper insight into the history of Christianity in Japan and complements the UNESCO heritage experience.

Admission Fee:

• Approximately ¥600–1,000 for adults. Visitors should check the latest rates at the ticket office.

Opening Time:

• Typically 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; hours may vary, so check local updates before visiting.