Urakami Cathedral (浦上天主堂), also known as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, is a Catholic cathedral located in the Urakami district of Nagasaki, Japan. The original cathedral was built in 1895 and was one of the largest Christian churches in East Asia at the time.
Tragically, the cathedral was severely damaged during the atomic bombing of Nagasaki on August 9, 1945. The bomb detonated only 500 meters away from the cathedral, causing it to collapse and killing many worshippers inside. The remaining ruins, including the “Atomic Bombed Maria” statue, are preserved as a reminder of the devastating impact of war.
After the war, the cathedral was rebuilt in a new location in Urakami and was completed in 1959. The new cathedral features a striking modern design that incorporates elements of the original Romanesque style, including a bell tower, chapel, and an underground crypt.
Today, the cathedral stands as a symbol of peace and reconciliation and is a popular destination for visitors to Nagasaki, attracting people of all faiths and backgrounds. The cathedral’s stained glass windows, intricate mosaics, and peaceful atmosphere are particularly impressive, and the resilience of the Nagasaki community is evident in the meticulous reconstruction of this sacred space.
In 2018, Urakami Cathedral was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region,” recognizing its historical and cultural significance.
Getting there
By Bus
From Nagasaki Station bus stop:
- Take a bus to Urakami Cathedral (or Catholic Center) bus stop
- Journey time: 15 minutes
- Walk 1 minute from the bus stop to the cathedral
By Tram
From Nagasaki Station:
- Take tram bound for Akasako
- Get off at Peace Park stop
- Walk 8 minutes to the cathedral
- Total journey time: Approximately 21 minutes
By Foot
- 25-30 minute walk from central Nagasaki
Details
| Hours | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Admission | Free |
| Phone | +81 95-844-1777 |
| Address | 1-79 Motoomachi, Nagasaki, 852-8112 |
| Official Website | https://uracathe.sakura.ne.jp/ |
