Former Nosaki Church

Kyū Nozoku Kyōkai

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A world of tranquility where history and nature intertwine. Visit the church standing on a deserted island, a place where hidden Christians once preserved their faith.

World Heritage
Castle
Shrines and Temples

Tourist destination images of Former Nosaki Church(1)

Tourist destination images of Former Nosaki Church(2)

Tourist destination images of Former Nosaki Church(3)

HighlightsA world of tranquility where history and nature intertwine
A place where hidden Christians once preserved their faith
A deserted island surrounded by abundant nature
The church's quiet presence conveys a sense of strength
A place where you can feel the weight of history

Basic Information

Address: Nozaki, Ojika-cho, Kitamatsuura-gun, Nagasaki Prefecture Search for tourist attractions in Nagasaki

Access: A 20-minute ride on the municipal ferry "Dai-3 Hamayu" from Fuki Port on Ojika Island to Nozaki Port. A 30-minute walk from the port. ※The ferry runs twice daily. There are non-operating days. ※Trips may be cancelled due to bad weather. Charter boats are also available. Show route

Op.Hours: While you can visit the church interior, prior contact is required.

Cld.Days: The church may be closed due to church events.

Fee: Admission is free.

INFO: Photography is prohibited inside the church. Also, access may be restricted during worship services. Access to the island is via the town-operated ferry "Dai-san Hamayu" from Fuefuki Port on Kojika Island, a roughly 20-minute ride. Ferries may be canceled due to bad weather. There are no lodging facilities on the island; a day trip is recommended. It's advisable to have a meal on Kojika Island before heading to the island. There are no shops or restaurants on Nozaki Island. Please bring your own water and snacks. The island's paths are narrow and may be difficult to navigate in places. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Ticks may be present. Thorough insect repellent is advised. Cellular phone reception may be unreliable in some areas.

HP: http://ojikajima.jp/

Overview

The Former Nosaki Church is located in Ojika-cho, Nagasaki Prefecture. Once the heart of the "Nosaki village," it served as a powerful symbol of the hidden Christians' enduring faith. During the Edo period, when Christianity was strictly forbidden under the sakoku (national isolation) policy, hidden Christians gathered on Nozaki Island to secretly practice their religion. They built this church, keeping the flame of their faith alive. However, the village gradually declined, and the island is now uninhabited. While now standing quietly in solitude, the Former Nosaki Church speaks volumes about the unwavering faith of its former congregants and their perseverance in harsh conditions. Lush nature surrounds the church, offering glimpses into the past. The church's powerful presence in the quiet setting evokes a profound sense of history for its visitors. Access to Nozaki Island is via a roughly 20-minute ride on the municipal ferry "Dai-3 Hamayu" from Fuki Port on Ojika Island. Please check in advance, as trips may be cancelled due to bad weather. Charter boats are also available. Nozaki Island is a beautiful island surrounded by abundant nature. After visiting the Former Nosaki Church, we recommend exploring the island and enjoying its natural beauty.