Nagasaki & Amakusa
Journey Through the Hidden Christian World Heritage Sites
Faith Tours
Craft a Journey to Japan Catholic Heart
Hello, my name is Shoan, and I’m a Catholic.
My passions and areas of expertise lie in the social sciences, especially history and culture, complemented by years of experience in business and VIP tours.
For a long time, I hesitated to launch this faith based tour series, grappling with self doubt. But through heartfelt prayer, I felt God’s guidance, giving me the confidence to craft Faith Tours that are more than just journeys, they are spiritual experiences.
So, what makes my tours different?
As a licensed tour conductor, I am not just someone who shows you places, but also a storyteller of religious history, a revealer of hidden gems, and a friend who prays alongside you.
Our company is a certified travel agency and tour operator, specializing in VIP travel experiences that demand a high level of service and care.
Every destination on these tours has been carefully inspected and personally visited by me to ensure your journey is smooth, meaningful, and filled with reassurance.
These tours are not merely trips, they are divine encounters, crafted to deepen your love for God and inspire you to share His love with others.
Oura Cathedral
Sakitsu Church
Urakami Cathedral
Shiragashima Church
In 2018, the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nagasaki and Amakusa were officially recognized for their profound historical and spiritual significance, bearing witness to the resilient faith of Japan’s Hidden Christians. This sacred region traces the remarkable journey of Christianity in Japan, from the arrival of St. Francis Xavier, who first planted the seeds of the Gospel in 1549, to the trials and triumphs of believers who preserved their faith in secrecy for over 250 years under the oppressive rule of the Shogunate government.
After the devastating Shimabara Rebellion (1637–1638), where Christians faced a crushing defeat against the Shogun forces, Japanese believers were forced underground. For more than 2 centuries, they practiced their faith in secret, enduring persecution while keeping the light of Christ alive. The Nagasaki & Amakusa region stands as a testament to their courage, resilience, and unwavering devotion.
Highlights of the area:
The Dawn of Christianity in Japan: Explore the legacy of St. Francis Xavier, whose missionary zeal introduced the Christian faith to Japan shores.
The Shimabara Rebellion: Relive the dramatic battles between Christian communities and the Shogunate government, a pivotal moment of sacrifice and resistance.
The Martyrdom of the 26 Saints: Reflect at the site in Nagasaki where 26 Christians were crucified in 1597, their faith immortalized as a symbol of courage.
The Hidden Christian Era: Discover the clandestine worship practices of Japan’s Hidden Christians, who preserved their faith in secret for over 250 years under Shogunate oppression.
The A-Bomb Maria: Visit the iconic Urakami Cathedral and learn about the miraculous survival of a statue of the Virgin Mary amidst the atomic bombing of Nagasaki in 1945.
Antique Catholic Churches: Marvel at the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of historic churches, such as Oura Cathedral and the churches of Amakusa.
Gotoshima Islands and Amakusa: Wander through picturesque landscapes and coastal villages, where Hidden Christians once found refuge and maintained their sacred traditions.
Hokkaido＆ Akita
A New Era of Christianity in Japan
Trappist Monastery
Trappistine Monastery
Motomachi Church
Akita Seitai Hoshikai Convent
With the fall of the Shogunate in the late 19th century, Japan entered a transformative era under Emperor Meiji, opening its doors to Western trade and influence. Christianity, long suppressed, emerged from the shadows, ushering in a vibrant new phase of growth. In the Hokkaido and Akita region, this renaissance is beautifully reflected in the modern architecture of convents and churches, which blend Western and Japanese influences, and in historic sites that mark the dawn of a new Japan.
Highlights of the areas:
The Trappistine Monastery: The first Catholic convent in Japan, was founded in 1898 by French nuns. Its serene cloisters and lush gardens radiate peace, inviting quiet contemplation.
The Trappist Monastery: established in 1896, showcases the austere beauty of monastic life, with its dairy products still crafted by monks to this day. These sacred spaces embody the quiet strength of Japan’s renewed Christian presence.
Churches of Otaru and Hakodate: Marvel at the architectural splendor of historic churches, such as the Motomachi Catholic Church or the St. John’s Catholic Church.
Their elegant stained-glass windows, ornate altars, and Western-inspired designs reflect the flourishing of Christianity during the Meiji era, harmonizing with Japan unique aesthetic.
Goryokaku Fortress: Explore this star-shaped fortress in Hakodate, a masterpiece of Western military architecture built in the 1860s. As the site of the final battle between the old Shogunate forces and the Meiji government in 1869, Goryokaku symbolizes Japan transition into modernity.
Akita Seitai Hoshikai Convent: Home to the revered “Our Lady of Akita” . Between 1975 and 1981, a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary was witnessed weeping 101 times, a miracle that drew global attention and deepened the faith of countless pilgrims. This sacred site remains a powerful place for prayer and spiritual renewal.
Tokyo, Osaka and Mt. Fuji
A Spiritual Journey Through Heart of Japan
Our Lady of Fuji
St. Ignatius Church
Tamazukuri Cathedral
Salesian Sisters Monastery
Tokyo and Osaka, Japan vibrant eastern and western hubs, are not only bustling metropolises but also home to thriving Catholic communities that welcome pilgrims with open hearts. Alongside the sacred slopes of Mt. Fuji, these destinations offer a unique blend of urban spirituality, multicultural worship, and natural beauty.
Highlights of the areas:
St. Ignatius Church (Tokyo): Located in the bustling capital, Catholic Kojimachi St. Ignatius Church is a cornerstone of Tokyo Catholic community and part of the Sophia University campus. This serene sanctuary offers Sunday Masses in Japanese, English, and Vietnamese, creating a welcoming space for international pilgrims. Its modern architecture and peaceful ambiance provide a perfect setting for prayer and reflection amidst the city energy.
Tamazukuri Cathedral (Osaka): As the main church of the Osaka Diocese, the St. Mary’s Cathedral, Takamatsu, Osaka (Tamazukuri Cathedral) is a spiritual beacon in western Japan. Known for its striking neo-Romanesque design, it hosts Sunday Masses in Japanese, English, and Vietnamese, fostering a diverse and inclusive worship experience. The cathedral tranquil interior and rich history make it a must visit for pilgrims seeking to connect with God.
Our Lady of Fuji: Nestled at the second stage (2-gome) of Mt. Fuji, Japan iconic and sacred mountain, the Our Lady of Fuji is a powerful spiritual destination. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this serene sacred place is revered as a “power spot,” offering breathtaking views and a profound sense of peace. Visiting this sacred site, surrounded by the majestic beauty of Mt. Fuji, is an unforgettable moment of divine connection and a highlight for any pilgrim exploring Japan cultural symbol.
