Religious Heritage of Nagasaki

Nagasaki’s religious landscape reflects its unique history as Japan's primary gateway to the world. This collection features the UNESCO-listed Oura Catholic Church, the oldest in Japan, alongside the Urakami Cathedral, rebuilt after the 1945 atomic bombing. The list also includes Kofukuji, the first Obaku Zen temple founded by Chinese merchants, and the Koshi-byo Confucian Shrine. These sites represent the intersection of Hidden Christian heritage, Chinese Buddhist traditions, and international cultural exchange within this historic port city.

Oura Catholic Church

The Oura Church or Oura Cathedral, officially the Basilica of the Twenty-Six Holy Martyrs of Japan, is a Catholic minor basilica and co…

Urakami Cathedral

The Immaculate Conception Cathedral also St. Mary's Cathedral, often known as Urakami Cathedral after its location Urakami, is a Roman…

Kofukuji Temple

This Zen temple is the oldest Chinese-founded temple in Nagasaki. It was erected in the 17th century, and serves as one of the most…

Archbishop's Palace, Nagasaki

A historic residence in the Minamiyamate district designated as a Nagasaki Prefectural Cultural Property. It serves as an architectural example of the city's Catholic administrative history and Western-influenced design.

Koshi-byo & Historical Museum of China

Built in 1893, this is the only Confucian shrine in the world constructed by Chinese people outside of China. The complex features 72 life-sized marble statues of Confucius' disciples and a museum showcasing historical artifacts.

Kaminoshima Catholic Church

A prominent white brick church built in 1897 overlooking the entrance to Nagasaki Harbor. It serves as a landmark for the local community and represents the Catholic history of the Kaminoshima area following the lifting of the ban on Christianity.