Explore the Christian Heritage of Hirado
Recommended Driving Routes
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Christianity came to Hirado in 1550. Since then, it has passed through three distinct phases. The first was its arrival and flourishing; the second was its being banned and chased underground; and the final stage was the lifting of the ban and Christianity’s revival. Meanwhile, on Ikitsuki Island the Kakure Kirishitan cultural tradition is still alive.
What are Hidden Christians and Kakure Kirishitan?
The people who secretly maintained their faith throughout the ban on Christianity are called Hidden Christians. The people who persisted with the forms of faith that developed over those years even after the lifting of the ban are called Kakure Kirishitan.
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Time needed
Times given for the tours include time for sightseeing.
For Visitors to Tabira Church
Tabira Church is a place of prayer. Visitors are asked to behave in a suitably quiet and respectful manner. It is best to contact the church before visiting, because the building is closed to visitors when ceremonies are taking place. The church also cannot accommodate a large number of visitors at any one time.
For inquiries, contact: Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region Information Center
TEL: 095-823-7650
http://kyoukaigun.jp/en/
Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region Information Center