Guide
The Twenty-Six Martyrs Memorial Museum, located in Nishizaka Park, Nagasaki, is a museum dedicated to honoring the twenty-six martyrs of Japan. Designed by Kenji Imai, the facility is famous for its creative design that evokes the spirit of Antoni Gaudí's Sagrada Família. Directly across the road from the museum stands the St. Philip Church (Twenty-Six Martyrs Memorial Church), a beautiful structure featuring twin towers shaped like angel wings. The museum serves as a vital hub for understanding the historical and cultural value of Nagasaki, housing precious materials that tell the story of the Age of Discovery, the arrival of Christianity, and the footsteps of the twenty-six martyrs.
The museum opened in 1962 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the canonization of the twenty-six martyrs. The designer, Kenji Imai, was a scholar of Antoni Gaudí, and he successfully translated that unique architectural style into a modern Japanese context. The site, known as 'Nishizaka Hill,' holds deep historical significance as a place where Christians once faced persecution. Because of this, the museum possesses a profound sense of religious-cultural weight combined with architectural elegance. In 1962, the facility was honored with the 14th Architectural Institute of Japan Award, recognizing it as a masterpiece of modern Japanese architecture.
The exhibits are deeply rooted in the historical context of the Age of Discovery. Visitors can view models of Spanish galleons like the 'San Felipe' and Portuguese Nau ships, alongside 16th-century antique maps (including works by Abraham Ortelius and Ludovico Teyssiera), providing a visual understanding of the maritime technology and worldviews of that era. The museum also showcases high-caliber contemporary art, such as the fresco wall painting 'The Road to Nagasaki' by Michika Hasegawa, wood carvings of 'Saint Paul Miki' by Masahiro Sawada, and bronze sculptures by Yasutake Funakoshi, exploring religious themes through an artistic lens.
The museum is open year-round. We highly recommend visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the interplay of light and shadow within the unique architectural forms. The appearance of the memorial chapel changes beautifully depending on the angle of the sun, making a daytime visit ideal. Since it is adjacent to Nishizaka Park, a visit here allows you to soak in the historical atmosphere of Nagasaki while enjoying a stroll through the park.
Beyond viewing artifacts, visitors can experience a seamless blend of architecture, fine art, and history. Simply walking through the Gaudi-inspired space is a cultural experience in itself. The adjacent St. Philip Church remains an active place of worship, offering a serene space for quiet prayer. Through the historical maps and ship models, you can feel the dynamic energy of the era when Japan and Europe were first connected.
The museum is situated within Nishizaka Park, which features the bronze statue 'Prayer of Ascension' by Yasutake Funakoshi. The site is within walking distance from Nagasaki Station and is surrounded by various historic churches that define the landscape of Nagasaki. It is also conveniently located near World Heritage sites like Oura Cathedral, making it an easy addition to a historical sightseeing itinerary.
As this is a quiet, sacred space, please maintain a respectful and silent demeanor. Because the facility also functions as a church, it is customary to avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Cash is often the most reliable way to handle small payments or fees on-site. Please follow local instructions regarding photography of exhibits and the sanctuary. The facility is accessible for wheelchair users via designated entrances.