KumamotoTravel

Leisurely Stroll Through a UNESCO World Heritage Fishing Village and Sea Cathedral

About this spot

A small fishing village nestled in the inlet of Yōka-ga Bay (羊角湾), designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a constituent property of "Hidden Christian Sites and Christian Heritage in the Nagasaki Region and Kumakusa." The village's symbol, Saki Tsu Church (﨑津教会), is a Gothic cathedral designed by Tekikawa Yosuke, a master of church architecture. Uniquely, its interior features tatami mats rather than wooden floors. The church stands on the former site of a village headman's residence where fumie (image-stepping) took place during the Christian prohibition, earning it the affectionate name "Church of the Sea." Other highlights include the narrow Tōya alleyways between homes and Kake—fishing work platforms extending into the sea—characteristic features of fishing village life. A statue of Mary stands on the promontory watching over the sea, and walking through the village at dusk, you'll be quietly moved by the profound history of a people who have lived and prayed by the sea.

Tips

Roads in the village are narrow, so park your car in the lot near the village entrance and explore on foot. Photography is prohibited inside the church, and entry may be restricted during masses or services. Remember that the village is home to residents, so walk quietly through the alleyways and avoid entering private property.