Miyazu Catholic Church

Also called Saint John church, this wooden church was built in 1896 by the French priest, Father Louis Relave. It is the second oldest church building in Japan as well as the oldest church in Japan that still actively holds weekly Mass.

The church is structered in the Romanesque style.  The church also displays an interesting mix of Japanese and Western styles as the inside is tatami-matted while the windows are decorated with 1280 sheets of stained glass imported from France.

It’s not a sightseeing spot but a religious facility where many people come to pray. Visitors are not welcome on Sunday mornings or when people are using the church to pray.

In December during the Christmas season, the church decorates its yard with a beautiful Christmas tree.

*Attention Visitors Interested in Visiting Miyazu Catholic Church

Since 120 years have passed since the construction of the cathedral, the building has slowly deteriorated overtime presently leaving it in a rather dangerous situation. The condition of the entrance to the cathedral is especially poor and it is currently in danger of collapsing.  Given the severity of the present situation, visitors are prohibited from entering the cathedral for the time being. 

Members of the church are currently discussing the possibility of repairs and hope to be able to reopen the cathedral to the public as soon as possible.