Nagasaki Hidden Christian Heritage Guided Tour

Nagasaki , Japan

Nagasaki Hidden Christian Heritage Guided Tour

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About this experience

If you’re an inquisitive traveler, this tour is the perfect fit!

Take a journey through Japan’s Christian history as you explore the Twenty-Six Martyrs sites and the Sotome and Shitsu Villages. Visit places where hidden Christians once practiced their faith in secret, and discover serene churches, shrines, and historical landmarks that tell a powerful story of faith, perseverance, and cultural blending.

Along the way, enjoy the local scenery and culture while gaining a deeper understanding of Nagasaki’s Hidden Christian Heritage.

- Explore and learn about the area’s unique history and culture with a local English-speaking guide — The knowledge enriches what you see.
- Travel in comfort and style in a private vehicle—All transportation is taken care of, so you can simply sit back and enjoy the journey.　(The Hidden Christian sites, part of the UNESCO World Heritage, are located about an hour from the city center and can be difficult to reach by public transport.)

Available options

Nagasaki Hidden Christian Heritage Guided Tour

What's included

English-speaking Local Guide

Private transportation

Admission fee

Entrance fee

Air-conditioned vehicle

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

You will deep-dive into about the 300-year history of Christianity in Nagasaki — from the arrival of missionaries to the eventual freedom of faith.
This place serves as an introduction to the historical sites you will visit later in the tour; Sotome and Shitsu villages where the hidden Christians went into hiding and continued to keep their faith.

Located along the beautiful coast of Sotome — once home to the Hidden Christians — this roadside station offers stunning views and a chance to discover the area’s history and local products. You may grab a quick snack here (at your own cost).

The shrine is said to be a place where Hidden Christians once offered their prayers in secret.
Here, you can feel the unique history where different faiths coexist and intertwine.
Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as we will be walking along a mountain path for about 15 minutes.

This old home is tied to the Hidden Christians who kept their faith alive in secret.
You can still sense their quiet strength and glimpse how they once lived in hiding from the authorities.

This museum presents the achievements of Father de Rotz, who dedicated himself to improving the lives of local villagers.
It offers insights into his deep faith and the lasting impact of his work on the community.

At the Former Shitsu Aid Center, you’ll learn about Father de Rotz, a French missionary who devoted his life to improving the lives of the local people. He established this facility in the late 19th century to provide education, job training, and welfare for those in need.

What's not included

Food and Drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Please wait around Nagasaki City Tourist Information Center located at JR Nagasaki Station (next to the Shinkansen ticket gate)

About Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a port city on the northwest coast of Kyushu, Japan's southernmost main island. Known for its rich history, vibrant international culture, and tragic past as the second city to suffer an atomic bombing, Nagasaki offers a unique blend of historical sites, scenic beauty, and cultural diversity. The city is also famous for its annual Nagasaki Kunchi festival and its role as a gateway to China and Korea during the Edo period.

Top Attractions

Atomic Bomb Museum

The Atomic Bomb Museum in Nagasaki is a poignant and educational experience, offering insights into the devastating impact of the atomic bombing in 1945. The museum houses artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that highlight the human cost of nuclear war.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥200

Nagasaki Peace Park

Nagasaki Peace Park is a serene and symbolic park dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing. The park features a large peace statue, a fountain, and a variety of memorials that serve as a reminder of the importance of peace.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Glover Garden

Glover Garden is a historic hillside park featuring a collection of Western-style buildings from the 19th century. The park is named after Thomas Blake Glover, a Scottish trader who played a significant role in the modernization of Japan.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥620

Dejima

Dejima is a man-made island in Nagasaki Harbor that served as a trading post for the Dutch during the Edo period. The island is now a historical site with well-preserved buildings and exhibits that offer insights into Japan's early interactions with the Western world.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥650

Nagasaki Chinatown

Nagasaki Chinatown is one of the largest Chinatowns in Japan, featuring a vibrant mix of Chinese culture, cuisine, and architecture. The area is known for its bustling streets, colorful buildings, and delicious Chinese food.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore, cost varies for food and shopping

Mount Inasa

Mount Inasa is a popular spot for its stunning panoramic views of Nagasaki. The mountain is easily accessible by ropeway and offers a breathtaking view of the city, especially at night when the city lights create a mesmerizing scene.

Nature 1-2 hours ¥1,100 round trip for the ropeway

Must-Try Local Dishes

Champon

A hearty noodle dish featuring a variety of seafood, vegetables, and pork in a rich, creamy broth. It's a popular comfort food in Nagasaki.

Dinner Contains seafood and pork

Sara Udon

A cold udon noodle dish topped with a variety of raw seafood, vegetables, and a tangy sauce. It's a refreshing and flavorful dish.

Dinner Contains seafood

Castella

A moist and fluffy sponge cake with a rich, honey-like flavor. It's a popular souvenir from Nagasaki.

Dessert Contains eggs and wheat

Shumai

Steamed dumplings filled with a mixture of pork, shrimp, and vegetables. They are a popular street food in Nagasaki.

Snack Contains pork and shrimp

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mount Inasa Exploring Gunkanjima Visiting Unzen Volcanic Area Relaxing in hot springs Strolling through Glover Garden Enjoying the views at Nagasaki Peace Park Exploring Nagasaki Chinatown Visiting historic sites like Dejima

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded during these periods, and the cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn add to the scenic beauty.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Nagasaki is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, travelers should take standard precautions to ensure their safety and well-being. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxis and tour services

Getting there

By air

Nagasaki Airport • 3.7 km from city center
Sasebo Airport • 30 km from Nagasaki city center

By train

Nagasaki Station

By bus

Nagasaki Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is a convenient and scenic way to get around Nagasaki. It offers a nostalgic experience with vintage trams.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nagasaki City Center Minami-Yamate Nagasaki Chinatown Dejima Urakami

Day trips

Gunkanjima (Battleship Island)

15 km from Nagasaki • Half day to full day

Gunkanjima, also known as Battleship Island, is a deserted island that was once a thriving coal mining community. The island is now a popular tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into Japan's industrial past and the harsh living conditions of its residents.

Huis Ten Bosch

30 km from Nagasaki • Full day

Huis Ten Bosch is a Dutch-themed park featuring a variety of European-style buildings, gardens, and attractions. The park is designed to resemble a traditional Dutch village and offers a unique and charming experience for visitors.

Unzen Volcanic Area

50 km from Nagasaki • Full day

The Unzen Volcanic Area is a stunning natural landscape featuring active volcanoes, hot springs, and scenic hiking trails. The area is known for its dramatic volcanic activity and the tragic story of the Dutch traders who were killed by a volcanic eruption in the 18th century.

Festivals

Nagasaki Kunchi Festival • Early October Nagasaki Lantern Festival • February Nagasaki Hibiscus Festival • Late July to early August

Pro tips

Visit the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park for a poignant and educational experience
Try local specialties like Champon, Sara Udon, and Castella
Explore Nagasaki Chinatown for a vibrant and delicious cultural experience
Take a day trip to Gunkanjima (Battleship Island) for a unique and historic adventure
Visit Glover Garden for a scenic and historic experience