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.
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.