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During the era when Christianity was forbidden, the Hidden Christians of this village sustained their faith in quiet, organized ways. They developed a distinctive religious culture within this fishing community, revering the natural patterns found inside abalone and pen shells as symbols of the Virgin Mary, and sharing spiritual space with local indigenous beliefs.
After the ban on Christianity was lifted, a church was constructed beside Sakitsu Suwa Shrine, a rare and powerful testament to both the unique form of faith that evolved during the prohibition period and the moment of its transformation.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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