Guida
The Our Lady of the Rosary Trappistine Nuns Monastery (commonly known as Tenshi-en) is a Cistercian monastery located in Kamiyukawa-cho, Hakodate. It was founded in 1898 by nuns sent from France. This monastery serves as a place of life for the nuns, who base their existence on prayer and manual labor, while offering visitors a profound space for silence, reflection, and spiritual peace.
The history of this monastery dates back to 1898. It began when eight nuns were dispatched from the Abbey of Oussy in France, through the efforts of Bishop Berliore of the Paris Foreign Missions Society. Since then, the monastery has maintained the tradition of Christian evangelism and the spiritual life of the religious order in Hokkaido. Following the Rule of Saint Benedict, the community continues to uphold the traditions of contemplative life, emphasizing daily prayer and labor as cloistered monastics.
The monastery is filled with historical architecture and artistic elements. A particularly striking feature is the stained glass found in the chapel and the guest dining hall. These windows are modeled after traditional French designs, creating a magnificent visual experience through the interplay of light and color. The very structure of the monastery is designed to create a sacred space for prayer within a tranquil environment.
Visitors typically visit during daylight hours. The reception operates in two sessions: the morning session from 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM, and the afternoon session from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM. While the monastery offers a sense of serenity regardless of the season, visiting during the daytime when the sunlight illuminates the stained glass provides a particularly colorful and breathtaking spectacle.
Visitors are welcome to participate in Mass and the Divine Office (Liturgy of the Hours). Participation is open to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation. If you are interested in learning more about the monastic way of life, it is recommended to contact the monastery in advance. This is an ideal place for those seeking spiritual rest, introspection, and a temporary escape from the noise of modern life.
The monastery is situated in a lush, natural area of Hakodate. It is located slightly away from the central Hakodate city area, allowing visitors to enjoy a quiet atmosphere surrounded by nature. It is easy to incorporate a visit to the monastery into a broader Hakodate sightseeing itinerary.
As this is a place of active prayer, appropriate attire and respectful behavior are strictly required. Please dress modestly and avoid clothing that is overly revealing. Since reception hours are strictly set, it is important to check the schedule before your visit. For specific details regarding payments or further guidance, please consult the reception desk upon arrival.