Catholic Kusunbara Church

Overview

The Catholic Kusunbara Church, located on Fukue Island in Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture, is a place where you can feel the weight of history and culture. Completed in 1912 (Meiji 45), this brick Gothic-style building is one of the oldest surviving churches in the Goto Islands. Its beautiful exterior and the peaceful atmosphere within will soothe your soul. Near the church are the ruins of the Kusunbara jailhouse, where Christians were imprisoned during the persecution of 1868 (Meiji 1), offering a deeper understanding of the area's history. Hidden Christians, who had migrated from the Omura Domain (present-day Outer Sea area of Nagasaki City), once lived in this area. In 1865 (Genji 2), the discovery of believers led to Goto Christians flocking to Bishop Petitjean in Nagasaki. News of the arrival of long-awaited priests reached the Goto Islands. However, the Meiji period brought persecution and arrests of believers in Goto, with the Chokata house in Kusunbara used as a jail. Later, they were transferred to the Minoura jail, facing cruel torture from officials demanding renunciation of their faith. In 1873 (Meiji 6), the prohibition notice was removed, finally ending the arrests and imprisonment. Then, in 1912 (Meiji 45), after three years of construction by Yosuke Tetsukawa, the present Kusunbara Church was completed. With its brick Gothic exterior and ribbed vault ceiling, it's the second oldest church in Shimogoto, after the Dojozaki Church. Over time, the Kusunbara Church gradually deteriorated, undergoing partial repairs as needed. In 1968 (Showa 43), major renovations and extensions, including the altar, were carried out, bringing it to its present state. Kusunbara Church is one of the places that symbolizes the history and culture of the Goto Islands. Its beautiful architecture and tranquil atmosphere deeply move visitors. When visiting the Goto Islands, be sure to visit the Catholic Kusunbara Church and experience its history and culture.