Nestled in the heart of Nagasaki, Japan, Oura Cathedral, or Oura Church, stands as a stunning testament to history. As the oldest surviving Christian church in the country, it embodies a spirit of endurance and devotion.
Join me on a virtual journey to Nagasaki, where we can explore the enchanting Oura Cathedral. We’ll explore its history, architecture, and cultural value. This will give you a full view of Oura Cathedral in Nagasaki, Japan.
The Rich History of Oura Cathedral
Oura Cathedral, also known as the Basilica of the Twenty-Six Holy Martyrs of Japan, is a historic Catholic church located in Nagasaki, Japan. It holds a significant place in the history of Christianity in Japan and is a symbol of resilience and faith.
Early Beginnings
The story of Oura Cathedral begins in the mid-19th century. In 1853, Japan ended its long period of isolation, known as the Sakoku policy, and opened its ports to foreign trade and influence. This change allowed foreign missionaries to enter Japan and spread Christianity once again.
In December 1862, two French priests from the Société des Missions Étrangères, Fathers Louis Furet and Bernard Petitjean, arrived in Nagasaki with the intention of building a church to honor the Twenty-Six Martyrs of Japan.
These martyrs, who included eight European priests, one Mexican priest, and seventeen Japanese Christians, were crucified in Nagasaki in 1597 by order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
Construction and Design
The construction of Oura Cathedral began in 1863 and was completed in 1864. The church was initially a small wooden structure with three aisles and three octagonal towers. It was built by Koyama Hidenoshin, the master carpenter of the Glover Residence.
The present structure, which dates from around 1878, is a much larger Gothic basilica made of white stuccoed brick with five aisles, vaulted ceilings, and one octagonal tower. The design was likely based on a Belgian plan used by Catholic missionaries in an earlier church built in Osaka.
The cathedral’s stained glass windows were imported from France, adding to its beauty and charm. The church was officially a chapel for the French foreign community in Japan, as Christianity was still officially outlawed by the Tokugawa shogunate.
The Discovery of Hidden Christians
One of the most remarkable events in the history of Oura Cathedral occurred on March 17, 1865. Shortly after the completion of the original cathedral, Father Petitjean noticed a group of people standing in front of the church.
They indicated that they wanted him to open the doors. As the priest knelt at the altar, an old woman from the group approached him and said, “The heart (faith) of all of us is the same as yours. Where is the statue of Holy Mary?”
Father Petitjean discovered that these people were from the nearby village of Urakami and were Kakure Kirishitans, descendants of early Japanese Christians who had gone into hiding after the Shimabara Rebellion in the 1630s. This event, known as the “Discovery of Hidden Christians,” was a significant moment in the history of Christianity in Japan.
World War II and Restoration
Unfortunately, Oura Cathedral suffered damage during World War II due to the atomic bombing of Nagasaki on August 9, 1945. Despite being about four kilometers from ground zero, it sustained significant damage to its roof, stained glass windows, and main entrance.
Restoration efforts began after the war and were completed in 1952. In March 1953, it was once again recognized as a national treasure.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 2018, Oura Cathedral was inscribed as part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region.” This designation acknowledges its exceptional universal value and highlights its role as a symbol of religious freedom and cultural exchange.
Today, Oura Cathedral stands not only as a functioning church but also as a memorial to those who suffered for their faith. It attracts numerous visitors who come to learn about its rich history and appreciate its architectural beauty.
Architectural Beauty
The architecture of Oura Cathedral is stunning and reflects both Western and Japanese styles. Here are some key features:
Gothic Revival Style: The cathedral has tall spires and beautiful stained glass windows that let colorful light into the interior.
Unique Roof: The roof is made of sangawara pantiles, which are traditional Japanese tiles.
Wooden Support Beams: Unlike many European cathedrals that use stone for support, Oura Cathedral uses wooden beams, showcasing Japanese craftsmanship.
When you approach the cathedral, its white exterior stands out against the lush greenery surrounding it, making it a beautiful sight to behold.
Visiting Oura Cathedral
If you’re planning to visit Oura Cathedral, here are some important details:
Location: It is situated on a hill overlooking Nagasaki Bay, making it easy to find.
Address: Ōura Cathedral, 5-3 Minamiyamatemachi, Nagasaki, Japan
Phone: +81 95-823-2628
Official Website : https://oura-church.jp/
Opening Hours: The cathedral is open every day from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM).
Admission Fee: There is a small fee to enter. Adults pay around 1,000 yen, while junior high and high school students pay about 400 yen.
Nearby Museum: Don’t forget to check out the Christian Museum nearby, which has exhibits about the history of Christianity in Japan.
Getting There: You can reach Oura Cathedral by taking a tram to the Ouratenshudo-shita stop or by bus to Oura Tenshudo-mae stop.
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Final Thoughts
Our journey through the Oura Cathedral leaves us in awe. This historic church in Nagasaki, Japan, shows the strength of faith and human spirit. It also highlights the beauty of cultural exchange.
The Oura Cathedral has faced many challenges, like persecution and the atomic bombing of Nagasaki. Yet, it stands as a symbol of hope. Its UNESCO World Heritage status shows its global importance.
The cathedral is a mix of Western and Japanese styles. This blend shows how cultures can come together beautifully. It’s a symbol of the richness that comes from different cultures meeting.
Leaving the Oura Cathedral, we appreciate faith, human strength, and cultural beauty more. This church is a shining example of Nagasaki’s resilience. It will continue to inspire and captivate people worldwide.