Sacred Japan Catholic Pilgrimage Tour

A Sacred Journey through Japan’s Catholic Pilgrimage

What You'll Get

Join us on a powerful pilgrimage through Japan, tracing the footsteps of saints, martyrs, and hidden Christians. This spiritually enriching journey blends faith, history, and breathtaking culture across Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Tokyo, and Akita.

🔹 Highlights Include:

Nagasaki: Explore the roots of Christianity in Japan, visit sites like the Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum, St. Maximilian Kolbe’s church and grotto, and pray at the Mountain of the Cross.
Hirado & Shimabara: Discover the revival of faith post-persecution and reflect at historic martyrdom and rebellion sites.
Hiroshima: Celebrate Mass at the Cathedral of World Peace and reflect at the Peace Memorial Park and A-Bomb Dome.
Kyoto: Honor the 52 Kyoto Martyrs and enjoy the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Tokyo: Visit the site of the Great Martyrdom of Tokyo and explore the city at leisure.
Akita: Pray before the miraculous statue of Our Lady of Akita and conclude with a consecration ceremony and Holy Hour.

A Divine Journey: Exploring Japan's Catholic Pilgrimage Site

Welcome to Japan Catholic Pilgrimage Expedition

Japan may be known for its rich history and culture, but many people are surprised to discover the country's lesser-known Catholic heritage. From stunning churches to hidden pilgrimage sites, Japan offers a unique and spiritually enriching experience for those interested in exploring its Catholic roots.

One of the most famous Catholic pilgrimage sites in Japan is the Oura Cathedral in Nagasaki. Built in the 19th century, this beautiful church is the oldest remaining Christian church in the country and a symbol of the enduring faith of Japan's Catholic community. Pilgrims come from near and far to marvel at its architectural beauty and to pray at the shrine of the 26 Martyrs of Japan, who were crucified in Nagasaki in 1597 for their refusal to renounce their faith.

Another must-visit destination for Catholic pilgrims in Japan is the town of Yamaguchi, home to the stunning Kintaikyo Bridge and the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto. This peaceful sanctuary offers a serene setting for prayer and reflection, surrounded by lush greenery and the calming sound of flowing water.

For those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, a visit to the small island of Tsuwano is a must. Here, pilgrims can explore the striking Tsuwano Catholic Church, known for its intricate stained glass windows and peaceful atmosphere. The church also houses a relic of Blessed Charles Spinola, a Jesuit missionary who was martyred in Japan in the 17th century.

No matter where you choose to go on your Catholic pilgrimage in Japan, one thing is for certain: the peaceful and spiritual experience of exploring these sacred sites is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul. So why not embark on this divine journey and discover the hidden treasures of Japan's Catholic heritage? Your soul will thank you.

SAMPLE jAPAN cATHORLIC PILGRIMAGE ITINERARY

Day 1 – Group Depart US for Tokyo

Japan Adventure Club will handle your air booking.

Day 2 – Arrive Tokyo by 12 pm. Welcome Mass. Overnight in Tokyo.

Upon arrival in Tokyo, we will gather as a group for Mass at Takanawa Catholic Church, commemorating the Great Martyrdom of Tokyo. The remainder of the afternoon will be spent at leisure. Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 3 – Tokyo. Mt. Fuji. Welcome Dinner. Overnight in Tokyo.

We begin our tour with breakfast, then drive to the breathtaking Mount Fuji. We will celebrate Mass at Catholic Fuji Church in Fujisawa. In the evening, we return to Tokyo for a Welcome Dinner. Overnight in Tokyo.

Day 4 – Flight to Nagasaki. Lunch near airport. Our Lady of the Cape. 26 Martyrs. Overnight in Nagas

After breakfast, we fly to Nagasaki, “Little Rome of Japan.” Highlights include the statue of Our Lady of the Cape, Mass at St. Philip Church, and the Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum and Monument. Check into hotel. Overnight in Nagasaki.

Day 5 – Hongouchi. Kolbe Memorial. Oura Cathedral. Overnight in Nagasaki.

Begin with Mass at St. Maximilian Kolbe’s Church. Visit the Lourdes Grotto, Rosary Walk, St. Kolbe Memorial Museum, and Oura Cathedral and Museum. If time permits, stop at Meganebashi “Spectacles Bridge.” Overnight in Nagasaki.

Day 6 – Divine Mercy Sunday – Hirado and Tabira Church. Overnight in Nagasaki.

We drive to Hirado to visit St. Francis Memorial Church, then proceed to Tabira Church for Confessions and Mass. Father will continue hearing Confessions in the evening if needed. Overnight in Nagasaki.

Day 7 – Unzen Hot Springs, Shimabara Rebellion Sites. Overnight in Nagasaki.

We visit Unzen Hot Springs martyrdom site, then celebrate Mass at Shimabara Catholic Church. We also explore the Shimabara Rebellion site at Hara Castle and the 30-ft Maria Kannon statue. Overnight in Nagasaki.

Day 8 – Ferry to Goto Island. Mass and local churches. Overnight in Goto Island.

We ferry to Goto Island and visit Dozaki Catholic Church, then boat to The Christian’s Cave on Wakamatsu Island. Time-permitting, we visit Imochiura Church, Memorial Church, and Ryoyonasako Jail Martyrdom Monument. Overnight in Goto Island.

Day 9 – Goto Island Mass and Tour. Ferry to Nagasaki. Overnight in Nagasaki.

Morning Mass at Imochiura Church and visits to local religious sites. Afternoon ferry back to Nagasaki. Overnight in Nagasaki.

Day 10 – Mass and Cross Hill. Train to Hiroshima. Overnight in Hiroshima.

We visit Cross Hill, Nyoko-do, and the Dr. Takashi Nagai Memorial Museum. Celebrate Mass at Urakami Cathedral. Visit the Hypocenter Park and Atomic Bomb Museum. Bullet Train to Hiroshima. Overnight in Hiroshima.

Day 11 – Mass, Hiroshima Peace Park. Train to Kyoto. Overnight in Kyoto.

Morning Mass at Assumption of Mary Cathedral. Visit Peace Memorial Park, A-Bomb Museum, A-Bomb Dome, and Hiroshima Castle. Bullet Train to Kyoto. Dinner and hotel check-in. Overnight in Kyoto.

Day 12 – Mass and sightseeing in Kyoto. Overnight in Kyoto.

After breakfast, Mass at Kawaramachi Church (Our Lady of Miyako Chapel). Visit Nijo Castle. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight in Kyoto.

Day 13 – Sunday Mass in Kyoto. Fly to Akita. Visit Seitai Hoshikai. Overnight in Akita.

Morning Mass at Kawaramachi Church. Flight to Akita. Upon arrival, visit Chapel of Our Lady of Akita (Seitai Hoshikai). Hotel check-in and dinner. Overnight in Akita.

Day 14 – Mass and Holy Hour at Seitai Hoshikai. Optional afternoon. Overnight in Akita.

Return to Seitai Hoshikai for Mass, Miraculous Medal consecration, and Holy Hour. Afternoon free for reflection or optional visit to Kakunodate Samurai District. Overnight in Akita.

Day 15 – Final Mass. Fly from Akita to Tokyo. Optional Post-Tour & Overnight in Tokyo.

Final Mass of Thanksgiving at Seitai Hoshikai. Transfer to airport for flight to Tokyo. From Tokyo, return home or continue with optional post-tour stay.

Let Japan Adventure Club take you on a Pilgrimage journey!

Japan Adventure Club specializes in designing and customizing Catholic pilgrimages throughout Japan, offering travelers the opportunity to explore the country’s most meaningful and inspiring Christian sites. Whether you're planning a parish pilgrimage, a private spiritual retreat, or a group tour, Japan Adventure Club can tailor every detail to your group's needs—Mass locations, local devotions, historical context, and logistical support—ensuring a spiritually enriching and culturally immersive experience.

With roots in Japan since 1998 and a passion for connecting visitors to the "hidden side of Japan," the Club offers unmatched access to sacred places often overlooked by conventional tours. As detailed on the Japan Expo Tours website, we handle the complexities of travel, translation, and coordination so you can focus fully on prayer, reflection, and fellowship.

From the martyrdom sites of Nagasaki to the miraculous statue of Our Lady of Akita, and from scenic Mt. Fuji to underground Christian heritage in Goto Islands, this sample itinerary highlights just a glimpse of what your customized pilgrimage could look like.

Japan Catholic Pilgrimage