Yamaguchi Xavier Memorial Cathedral

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Yamaguchi Xavier Memorial Cathedral is a significant site associated with St. Francis Xavier, who introduced Christianity to Japan. It boasts beautiful stained glass, a pipe organ, and exhibits tracing Xavier's life – a must-see!

Historic Sites
Shrines and Temples
World Heritage

Tourist destination images of Yamaguchi Xavier Memorial Cathedral(1)

Tourist destination images of Yamaguchi Xavier Memorial Cathedral(2)

Tourist destination images of Yamaguchi Xavier Memorial Cathedral(3)

HighlightsCathedral associated with St. Francis Xavier
Beautiful stained glass
Majestic pipe organ
Exhibits tracing Xavier's life
Adjacent Xavier Memorial Park

Basic Information

Address: 4-1 Kameyamacho, Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture Search for tourist attractions in Yamaguchi

Access: ◆Transportation Train: 15-minute walk from JR Yamaguchi Station Bus: Get off at Chugoku Denryoku-mae stop (Bōchō Bus, Yamaguchi Prefectural Office or Miyano bound, Route 〇〇) from the north exit of Shin-Yamaguchi Station. 5-minute walk from the bus stop. ◆By Car Chugoku Expressway: Approximately 15 minutes from Yamaguchi IC, or approximately 15 minutes from Yuda Onsen Smart IC Sanyo Expressway: Approximately 20 minutes from Kogori IC Show route

Op.Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Cld.Days: Open all year round

Fee: ¥200 for adults (junior high school students and above), ¥100 for elementary school students

INFO: While tourists are welcome, please maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor during your visit. 〇Please refrain from using flash photography. 〇Selfies and commemorative photos are prohibited. 〇Please do not photograph individuals who are praying. 〇Photographing the holy ark is strictly forbidden. Additionally, please refrain from smoking, using mobile phones, eating or drinking, bringing pets, and wearing hats.

HP: http://www.xavier.jp/

Overview

Yamaguchi Xavier Memorial Cathedral holds a significant place in the history of Christianity in Japan, as it marks one of the locations where St. Francis Xavier, who first landed in Japan in 1549, conducted missionary activities. The original cathedral, built in 1952 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Xavier's arrival, was modeled after Xavier's birthplace, Xavier Castle in Spain, and was beloved by the local community. Sadly, it was destroyed by fire in 1991. The current cathedral, rebuilt thanks to numerous donations, was designed by an Italian priest and architect. Its distinctive features include two 53-meter-high towers and a large roof resembling a tent. While modern in design, it harmoniously blends with the lush greenery and serves as a landmark in Yamaguchi. Inside the cathedral, you'll find exhibits related to Xavier, stunning stained glass depicting biblical scenes, and a magnificent pipe organ. Even just a visit is a moving experience. Adjacent to the cathedral is the Xavier Memorial Park, commemorating Xavier's missionary work in Japan. The park features a monument to Xavier, and also preserves the site of Japan's first Christian church. Yamaguchi Xavier Memorial Cathedral offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and art, making it an unforgettable destination. We highly recommend a visit.