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Ibaraki City Christian Relics Museum: A Glimpse into Japan's Hidden Christian History

Explore Japan's hidden Christian heritage at Ibaraki City Christian Relics Museum; discover relics & stories from a fascinating historical period.

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Discover a unique chapter of Japanese history at the Ibaraki City Christian Relics Museum. Located in Ibaraki, Osaka, this museum showcases artifacts and documents related to the hidden Christians ('Kakure Kirishitan') who secretly practiced their faith during the Edo period when Christianity was prohibited. Explore relics, texts, and art that tell the story of Christianity's introduction and evolution in the region.

A brief summary to Ibaraki City Christian Relics Museum

  • Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays for a more peaceful experience, as weekends tend to be busier.
  • Check for special exhibitions or events to enhance your visit.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the collections and history.
  • Photography may be restricted in certain areas, so be sure to follow the museum's guidelines.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From JR Ibaraki Station, take a bus heading towards the Sendaiji area. Alight at the bus stop closest to the museum. Note that bus services to the museum are infrequent. The museum is a short walk from the bus stop. The train from Osaka to Ibaraki is around ¥200-¥290.

  • Walking

    From Ibaraki Station, it is approximately a 15-minute walk east to the Ibaraki City Christian Relics Museum. Follow signs towards Sendaiji Temple; the museum is nearby.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from JR Ibaraki Station. Provide the driver with the address: 262 Sendaiji, Ibaraki, Osaka 568-0098. The taxi ride from the station takes approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. A taxi from Osaka to Ibaraki costs approximately ¥6,500–¥8,500.

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Discover more about Ibaraki City Christian Relics Museum

The Ibaraki City Christian Relics Museum offers a fascinating look into the history of Christianity in Japan, particularly the era when it was outlawed. Established in 1987, the museum is located in the Sendaiji area, known as a 'hidden Christian village,' where Christians secretly maintained their faith. The museum's collection includes a variety of Christian relics and historical materials. Among the notable items are replicas of the 'Statue of St. Francis Xavier' and 'The Fifteen Mysteries of Mary,' which are also featured in textbooks. These artifacts provide insight into the challenges faced by early Japanese Christians and the cultural exchange between Japan and the Western world. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the history of Christians who continued to practice their faith in secret after Christianity was banned by the Edo Shogunate. The museum also features items such as the 'wooden crucifixion of Christ'. The knowledgeable staff often provides guided tours, offering deeper insights into the exhibits and the historical context. The museum is located in a serene setting, providing a space for quiet reflection.

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