the most popular Catholic pilgrimage sites in Japan
Ōura Cathedral (Basilica of the Twenty-Six Holy Martyrs)
Location: Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture (Kyushu)
Why it matters:
Built in 1864, this is Japan’s oldest surviving Christian church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is dedicated to the 26 Martyrs of Japan, crucified in 1597. Ōura Cathedral is also famous for the “discovery of the Hidden Christians”, when local believers revealed their secret faith after centuries of persecution.
Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region
Location: Nagasaki Prefecture (including Goto Islands, Ikitsuki Island, Sotome)
Why it matters:
These villages, churches, and sacred landscapes preserve the legacy of the Kakure Kirishitan (Hidden Christians) who secretly practiced Catholicism for over 250 years. Many sites are part of a UNESCO World Heritage listing and are central to any serious Japan Catholic pilgrimage.
Our Lady of Akita
Location: Akita City, Akita Prefecture (northern Honshu)
Why it matters:
The site of a Church-approved Marian apparition (1973–1981). Pilgrims come to venerate the wooden statue of Mary, known for its messages calling for prayer, penance, and peace. Akita is one of the most spiritually significant Marian sites in Asia.
Hiroshima – Catholic Sites & Peace Memorial
Location: Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture
Why it matters:
Hiroshima invites pilgrims to pray for peace and reconciliation. Catholic churches and memorials near the Peace Park commemorate victims of the atomic bombing, including local Catholics. Many pilgrimages include Mass intentions for peace here.
St. Francis Xavier Memorial
Location: Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture (Kyushu)
Why it matters:
This area marks the arrival of St. Francis Xavier in 1549, the beginning of Christianity in Japan. Memorials and churches here honor the missionary roots of Japanese Catholicism.
Tsuwano Catholic Church
Location: Tsuwano Town, Shimane Prefecture
Why it matters:
Known as the “Little Kyoto of San’in,” Tsuwano is associated with Christian exiles and martyrs. The church features beautiful stained glass and houses relics linked to Jesuit missionaries, making it a peaceful and reflective pilgrimage stop.
Yamaguchi Lourdes Grotto
Location: Yamaguchi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Why it matters:
A serene Marian grotto inspired by Lourdes, France. Yamaguchi also played a key role in early missionary activity and offers pilgrims a quiet place for prayer amid nature.
Tokyo & Mt. Fuji – Major Catholic Churches
Location: Tokyo Metropolitan Area
Why it matters:
Tokyo is home to active Catholic communities and historic churches such as St. Mary’s Cathedral. Pilgrims often begin or conclude their journey here, combining modern Catholic life with reflection on faith in contemporary Japan.
