The Historic Remains of Old Urakami Cathedral in Nagasaki
Explore the haunting remains of Old Urakami Cathedral, a historical landmark in Nagasaki, reflecting the city's resilient spirit and rich Christian heritage.
A brief summary to Remains of Old Urakami Cathedral
- 1-1 Motoomachi, Nagasaki, Motoomachi, Nagasaki, 852-8112, JP
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
The Remains of Old Urakami Cathedral, a historical landmark in Nagasaki, stands as a remarkable testament to the city’s resilience and rich cultural heritage. Originally built in the late 19th century, the cathedral was one of the largest and most beautiful churches in Japan, serving as a symbol of the Christian faith in the region. Its unique architecture, which combined Gothic and Romanesque elements, drew visitors and worshippers alike. However, the cathedral was tragically destroyed during World War II, an event that marked a poignant chapter in Nagasaki’s history. Today, the remains of the cathedral evoke a profound sense of reflection, as visitors can walk among the ruins and contemplate the past. The site is not only significant for its architectural beauty but also for the stories it tells of the people who have worshipped there and the events that unfolded during the war. As you explore, you can imagine the grandeur of the original structure and appreciate the ongoing efforts to preserve this important piece of history. The site is accessible to tourists and offers a serene atmosphere for contemplation and photography. The surrounding area also features additional historical sites, making it a perfect stop for those looking to immerse themselves in the rich narrative of Nagasaki.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Consider bringing a guidebook or using a local guide to fully appreciate the history behind the ruins.
- Respect the solemn nature of the site; maintain a quiet demeanor while exploring.
- Check for any local events or exhibitions that may be held at the site during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start by heading towards the city center of Nagasaki. Use a GPS navigation system and input the address '1-1 Motoomachi, Nagasaki, 852-8112'. There are parking facilities available nearby, but be sure to check for parking fees, which can range from 200 to 500 yen per hour. Once parked, the Remains of Old Urakami Cathedral is a short walk from the parking areas.
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Public Transportation - Train
To reach the Remains of Old Urakami Cathedral using public transportation, first, find your way to Nagasaki Station. From there, take the JR Nagasaki Line to Urakami Station. The train ride should take about 15 minutes. Once you arrive at Urakami Station, exit the station and head south on the main road. Walk for about 10 minutes, and you will find the cathedral ruins at '1-1 Motoomachi'. Note that the train fare is approximately 200 yen.
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Public Transportation - Bus
Alternatively, from Nagasaki Station, you can take a bus to the Urakami area. Look for buses heading towards 'Urakami' or 'Aomori'. The bus ride will take about 20 minutes, and the fare is around 250 yen. Once you get off at the Urakami bus stop, it is a short walk to the Remains of Old Urakami Cathedral. Head south along the main road until you reach the cathedral at '1-1 Motoomachi'.
Attractions Nearby to Remains of Old Urakami Cathedral
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Urakami Cathedral
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Peace Statue
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Peace Park Nagasaki
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Nagasaki Peace Bell
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Fountain of Peace
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Nagasaki City Museum of History and Folklore
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Urakami Cathedral Wall Remnant
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Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum
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Peace Park & Former Site of Air-raid Shelters in Matsuyama-machi
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Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims
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Hypocenter Park
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Sanno Shrine
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Nagasaki Prefecture Gokoku Shrine
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Nagasaki Science Museum
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Fuchi Shrine Station (Nagasaki Ropeway)
Landmarks nearby to Remains of Old Urakami Cathedral
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Atomic Bomb Hypocenter Monument
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Hilton Nagasaki
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Glover Garden
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Gunkanjima
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Huis Ten Bosch
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Senzaki Ancient Tombs (Kyushu Olle Iwajima Course starting point)
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Iwamoto Bridge
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Tachibana Museum Yanagawa
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YANAGAWA TACHIBANA-TEI OHANA
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Machiboke Monument
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Saga Castle Ruins
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Saga Castle History Museum
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Jagatani Park
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Takatanoseyama Koen Camping Ground
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Matsubara Shrine