Former Nosaki Church

WannaGoWannaGo
FavoriteFavorite
Highlight

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.

Tourist destination images of Former Nosaki Church(1)
Tourist destination images of Former Nosaki Church(2)
Tourist destination images of Former Nosaki Church(3)

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.

  • World Heritage
  • Castle
  • Shrines and Temples

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/

Recommended nearby attractions

Kurojima Village

Kurojima Village
distance 36.604km from Former Nosaki Church
  • Historic Sites
  • World Heritage
A World Heritage village harmoniously blending the history of hidden Christians and beautiful nature.

Aosasaka Ura Tenshudou Church

Aosasaka Ura Tenshudou Church
distance 18.691km from Former Nosaki Church
  • Cultural Assets
A red-brick church designated as a National Important Cultural Property, standing majestically overlooking the beautiful sea of the Goto Islands.

Catholic Yamada Church

Catholic Yamada Church
distance 33.197km from Former Nosaki Church
  • Historic Sites
  • Shrines and Temples
A historic church on Ikitsuki Island, built in the Taisho era. Its Romanesque brick architecture and stunning interior artwork made from butterfly wings are must-sees.

Kasuga Village

Kasuga Village
distance 32.907km from Former Nosaki Church
  • Historic Sites
  • World Heritage
A beautiful village where the lives of Kakure Kirishitan from 400 years ago are vividly preserved, harmoniously blending history and nature.

Catholic Hōki Church

Catholic Hōki Church
distance 36.909km from Former Nosaki Church
  • Historic Sites
  • Shrines and Temples
A historic wooden church built during the Meiji period. Its brick facade and side arcades are distinctive features. It harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding landscape, creating a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

Hirado Xavier Memorial Church

Hirado Xavier Memorial Church
distance 43.06km from Former Nosaki Church
  • Historic Sites
  • Shrines and Temples
A beautiful church, predominantly emerald green and white, situated on a hilltop offering panoramic views of Hirado's cityscape.

Atamaga-shima Village

Atamaga-shima Village
distance 20.317km from Former Nosaki Church
  • Historic Sites
A village rich in history and nature located at the southern tip of the Goto Islands. Discover numerous historical sites, including caves where Christians once hid.

Tomisumi Village

Tomisumi Village
distance 21.452km from Former Nosaki Church
  • Historic Sites
A tranquil and beautiful village preserving the atmosphere of the Edo period.

Catholic Nyusa Church

Catholic Nyusa Church
distance 33.148km from Former Nosaki Church
  • Historic Sites
  • Castle
  • Shrines and Temples
A stunning white church situated on a hill overlooking the Hirado Strait. Don't miss the architectural beauty designed by Yosuke Tetsukawa!

Ikitsuki-cho Museum, Shima no Yakata

Ikitsuki-cho Museum, Shima no Yakata
distance 32.731km from Former Nosaki Church
  • Historic Sites
A museum where you can experience the history and culture of Ikitsuki Island. Discover the island's unique charm, including Edo-period whaling and hidden Christians.

Nearby Hotels

Shimayado Goen

9.1 Exceptional7 reviews
Shimayado Goen
distance 7.818km from Former Nosaki Church