Catholic Motomachi Church

Overview

The Catholic Motomachi Church is a beautiful and historic church that graces Hakodate's cityscape. One of the three representative churches of Hakodate's Motomachi district, it was originally built by a French missionary in 1877 (Meiji 10). The current building, rebuilt in 1924 (Taisho 13), incorporates bricks salvaged from the previous structure, which was destroyed by fire in 1921 (Taisho 10). Its impressive 33-meter-high bell tower and beautiful Gothic architecture create a serene and sacred atmosphere. Inside, you'll find an altar and sacred paintings gifted by Pope Benedict XV. The church offers a tranquil and sacred space where you can spend some time in quiet contemplation. Imagine the Hakodate scenery of the early Meiji period as you soak in the history and culture. The church is surrounded by other notable religious buildings, including the Hakodate Orthodox Church, the Hakodate St. John's Church, and the Higashi Honganji Hakodate Betsuin, making it a great starting point to explore Hakodate's rich history and culture.