Dozaki Church: A Sacred Place Resonating with the History and Faith of the Goto Islands

The Red-Brick Church by the Sea: A Symbol of Goto Christians

Dozaki Church is a historic church located in Goto City, Nagasaki Prefecture, significant for telling the Christian history of the Goto Islands. Completed in 1908, this red-brick church, with its impressive stance against the sea, attracts many tourists.

Trails of Faith: The Role of the Christian Archive

Today, Dozaki Church is open to the public as a Christian archive. The interior displays valuable materials depicting the history of faith from the period of Christian persecution to the Meiji era, providing an opportunity to learn about the history of Christianity in Goto.

• Historical exhibits such as the fumie and statues of the Virgin Mary
• Old stained glass window frames presumed to have been used at the time
• Sanctuary housing the relics of St. John of Goto

Architectural Beauty: Beauty Inside and Out

The church's exterior is made of red bricks, while the interior is wooden. Features such as brightly colored stained glass and a bat ceiling can be seen throughout the church architecture, fascinating visitors.

Visiting Tips

1. Admission fee: 300 yen (exterior viewing is free)
2. Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
3. Parking: Available a few minutes' walk from the church
4. Nearby facilities: Folk museum nearby
5. Café: There is a café along the way to the church, and soft ice cream is popular

Feel the History of Goto Christians

Dozaki Church was built by French missionaries after the prohibition of Christianity was lifted. The initial wooden church was constructed in 1879, and the current brick church was completed in 1908. This church is an important symbol of the revival and continuance of the Christian faith in the Goto Islands.

Beautiful Scenery and Tranquil Atmosphere

Dozaki Church stands beautifully against the sea in both clear and rainy weather, healing the hearts of many visitors. Especially on rainy days, it exudes a fantastical atmosphere, offering unique charm.

Dozaki Church is a place where the rich nature and profound history of faith in the Goto Islands are intertwined, epitomizing the 'Island of Prayer.' It is a recommended tourist spot for those interested in the history of Christianity as well as in architecture and landscape photography. Come and quietly feel the deep history and faith of Goto.