Audio Guide of Ōura Church

Ōura Church is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. To get there, take the Blue tram line to the Ōura Tenshudō-shita stop, then walk 5 minutes. More details: Nagasaki Tourism.

General admission is 1,000 yen. Students pay 600 yen and children 400 yen. Groups of 15 or more receive a reduced rate (2024 prices). Admission includes access to the church and the adjacent museum.

It is recommended to allow between 45 minutes and 1 hour to explore the church, gardens, and museum. This includes time to admire the Neo-Gothic architecture and the historical exhibits.

It is the oldest Catholic church in Japan (1864) and the first Christian site in the country to be declared a World Heritage Site (2018). It commemorates the Kakure Kirishitan, or Hidden Christians, who survived 250 years of persecution.

March to May is ideal for the garden's cherry blossoms, while October to November offers cool weather. Avoid midday, when it is more crowded. Sunday Masses at 10:30 AM provide an authentic atmosphere but may have restrictions.

There are ramps at the exterior entrances, but the interior has narrow stairs and uneven levels. The garden area is partially accessible. Wheelchairs are available to borrow free of charge, subject to availability.

Five minutes away: Glover Garden, home to the oldest Western-style residence in Japan. A 15-minute tram ride away: the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park. Shinchi Chinatown is 3 stops away (Interactive map).

1) Wear comfortable shoes, as the streets are steep. 2) Carry cash, since few places accept cards. 3) Visit the new Oura Memorial Garden (2017) behind the church. More information: Spanish guide.