Embark on an inspiring 7-day pilgrimage and historical exploration into the heart of Kyushu’s unique Christian heritage. This curated journey traces the profound history of Japan’s Hidden Christians (Kakure Kirishitan), spanning centuries of faith, resilience, trial, and eventual peaceful restoration.
From the enduring legacy of the 26 Martyrs of Japan to the tragic battlegrounds of the Shimabara Rebellion, this guided pilgrimage bridges deep historical discovery with spiritual reflection—delving into the enduring themes explored in the famous novel Shusaku Endo - Silence.
From the vibrant, historical port town of Hirado to the dramatic coastlines of Nagasaki, the hot spring sanctuaries of Unzen, and the remote island beauty of Amakusa, you will trace the footsteps of martyrs, saints, and early missionaries. Beyond sacred sites, this experience features intimate moments of community, art, local dining, and quiet reflection set against western Kyushu's most breathtaking landscapes.
Why choose this pilgrimage tour?
Seamlessly Combine Japan & Korea for World Youth Day 2027: Attending World Youth Day 2027 in Seoul? Our initial departure ends in Fukuoka just days before the event opens. Thanks to a short 1.5-hour direct flight to Seoul, you can easily experience Japan’s hidden Christian history before hopping over to South Korea.
Explore Hidden Christian UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Gain deep, direct access to the official UNESCO-designated Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki and Amakusa Region, visiting historic island villages, remote sanctuaries, and clandestine worship grounds where faith survived underground for over 250 years.
Exclusive Access & Sacred Mass Opportunities: Walk through active and historical places of worship—including Oura Cathedral (Japan’s oldest standing church) and Urakami Cathedral—with unique access to worship sites and opportunities to participate in or attend special mass services offered from local priests along the pilgrimage route.
Firsthand Testimony from an Atomic Bomb Survivor (Hibakusha): Experience a deeply moving, once-in-a-lifetime encounter in Nagasaki to hear live, personal testimony from an atomic bomb survivor, bridging the historical resilience of the Kakure Kirishitan with modern themes of peace, reconciliation, and hope.
Walk Through Pivotal Historical Battlegrounds: Trace the dramatic events of the Shimabara Rebellion historical sites, reflecting on the legendary leadership of Amakusa Shiro, the tragic siege of Hara Castle, and the solemn memorial to the 26 Martyrs of Japan on Nishizaka Hill.
Literary & Spiritual Contextualization: Walk the coastal paths and historic sites that inspired Shusaku Endo’s acclaimed masterpiece Silence, accompanied by expert historical commentary that brings the region’s complex spiritual heritage to life.
Intimate, Expert-Guided Group Travel: Travel seamlessly in a small group setting (max 15 guests) with private transfers, curated accommodations, and continuous support from dedicated English-speaking guides specializing in Nagasaki church tours and Japanese Christian history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is this tour only for Catholics?
A: No, this pilgrimage is open to everyone regardless of faith or background. It is equally compelling for history enthusiasts, scholars, and cultural explorers interested in Japan’s religious heritage, architectural history, and the story of the Kakure Kirishitan. Please note, however, that while all participants are welcome to visit the historical sites and churches, access to receive Holy Communion and participate in active sacramental mass services is reserved for practicing Christian pilgrims in accordance with church practices.
Q: How physically demanding is the pilgrimage?
A: The tour maintains a moderate/low pace. It includes daily walking tours across historical church grounds, museums, and monument sites. Most walks are on paved or gently sloping terrain, making it accessible to travelers with a standard level of fitness.
Q: What language will the tour and Mass be conducted in?
A: The tour is conducted primarily in English (with interpretation from Japanese), and Holy Mass will be held in English. We also warmly welcome Spanish and Italian speakers, as our tour guides are fluent in both languages and happy to assist you!
Highlights on the tour
Sacred Mass & Reflection: Attend Mass at historical churches including St. Philip Nishizaka Catholic Church, Urakami Cathedral, and Catholic Unzen Church.
Hidden Christian Heritage Sites: Explore UNESCO World Heritage-related landmarks, including the Sotome district (Shitsu Church & Rescue Shelter), Oura Cathedral, Glover Garden, and the Sakitsu Village in Amakusa.
Peace & Healing: Hear firsthand testimonies from an Atomic bomb survivor (hibakusha) at the Nagasaki National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims.
Cultural Evenings & Local Arts: Enjoy an elegant traditional dinner with Geisha performance at the historic Ryotei Ichiriki and take part in a hands-on Japanese printmaking experience in Minamishimabara.
Unwind in Onsen Luxury: Experience traditional hospitality and hot-spring relaxation at premium ryokan accommodations in Ureshino and Unzen.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Kyushu & Gathering in Fukuoka
Welcome to Kyushu! Upon arrival at Fukuoka Airport, you will be met by your tour host and transferred toward central Fukuoka. Check into the comfortable Hakata Tokyu Rei Hotel and spend the evening relaxing or exploring the surrounding Hakata area at your leisure to ease into your journey.
Day 2: Hirado Heritage, Kasuga Terraces & Hot Spring Retreat
Depart Fukuoka heading west toward the island town of Hirado, an early gateway of foreign trade and Christian mission work in Japan. Marvel at the distinct spires of St. Francis Xavier Memorial Church set amidst traditional Japanese temple views. Enjoy a local lunch at Chobo-tei Toranotsuki before taking a stroll through the breathtaking Kasuga Rice Terrace Fields, where early Hidden Christians practiced their faith in secret while working the land. Conclude the day with a transfer to the soothing hot-spring town of Ureshino.
Day 3: Sotome Coast, Sacred Faith & the Martyrs of Nagasaki
Journey south toward Nagasaki along the rugged Sotome coast—a primary sanctuary for early Hidden Christians. Visit the Former Shitsu Rescue Shelter and Shitsu Church, constructed under the guidance of Father Marc Marie de Rotz. Arriving in Nagasaki city, participate in Mass at St. Philip Nishizaka Catholic Church and pay tribute at the Site of the Twenty-Six Japanese Martyrs, visiting the adjacent museum dedicated to their legacy. In the late afternoon, check into the sophisticated Hotel Indigo Nagasaki Glover Street, set in a beautifully restored historic district. Conclude your day with a welcome dinner served within the hotel's dining hall—an extraordinary venue transformed from a historic red-brick chapel structure.
Day 4: Nagasaki’s Resilience, Sacred Mass & Geisha Evening
A deeply meaningful day in Nagasaki begins just steps from your hotel at Oura Cathedral—Japan's oldest standing church—and the adjacent hillside of Glover Garden. Shift focus to modern history with a sobering visit to the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and the Peace Memorial Hall, where you will have the rare honor of hearing testimony directly from an Atomic bomb survivor (hibakusha).
After lunch at Ryushoro, attend Mass at Urakami Cathedral and walk through the tranquil Peace Park. In the evening, step back in time with a private dinner at the historic Ryotei Ichiriki, enjoying classic Shippoku dining paired with elegant, traditional Geisha dance performances.
Day 5: Shimabara Peninsula, Castle History & Artisanal Crafts
Travel to the Shimabara Peninsula, starting with a classic local lunch of Guzoni at Himematsuya. Explore the majestic Shimabara Castle and learn about the historical Shimabara-Amakusa Rebellion at the Arima Christian Heritage Museum and Hara Castle site. In the afternoon, unleash your creativity at Minamishimabara Art Village "Shirakino" during a hands-on Japanese printmaking experience. Afterwards, retreat into the mountains of Unzen to check into your luxury hot-spring ryokan.
Board a ferry across the peaceful sea to the island region of Amakusa, a sanctuary for Hidden Christians during periods of prohibition. Visit the Tomioka Castle Ruins and Adam Arakawa Memorial Park before enjoying a localized Nanban-style bento lunch. Explore the peaceful waterside setting of Sakitsu Village and Sakitsu Church, where traditional Christian iconography was subtly blended with local fishing culture. Return via ferry to Unzen for your evening stay.
Day 7: Unzen Hell Tour, Pilgrimage Mass & Departure
On your final morning, take a walking tour through Unzen Jigoku ("Unzen Hells"), witnessing steaming sulfur vents that carry both geothermal beauty and historical solemnity. Attend a final Mass at Catholic Unzen Church to pray for the early martyrs of the region. On the return drive northward, guests may disembark at Nagasaki Airport or continue with the group to Hakata Station in Fukuoka, where our journey concludes.
Hotels as listed or similar based on availability.
Private chartered coach for all transfers, excursions, and ferry journeys listed in the itinerary.
Full-time professional English-speaking guide and dedicated pilgrimage hosts.
Meals: Breakfast daily, select high-quality lunches (Day 2, Day 4, Day 6), and traditional dinner at Ryotei Ichiriki with Geisha performance on Day 4.
All admission fees to museums, historical sites, workshops, and private experiences listed in the itinerary.
Excludes
International flights to/from Japan.
Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary.
Personal expenses, souvenirs, and travel insurance.
Unzen Catholic Church - Mass
Unzen
Located in the serene mountain hot-spring resort town of Unzen, Unzen Catholic Church stands as a peaceful sanctuary built in memory of the many Japanese Christians martyred in the nearby geothermal hells (jigoku). Consecrated in 1981, the chapel features vibrant stained-glass windows crafted in France that depict scenes of faith, suffering, and resurrection. As part of our itinerary, we will gather in this tranquil mountain chapel to celebrate Mass together and honor the enduring legacy of the local martyrs.
Unzen Jigoku Hells
Unzen
Situated within Unzen-Amakusa National Park, Unzen Jigoku ("Unzen Hells") is a dramatic geothermal field filled with roaring steam vents, bubbling mud pits, and a pervasive scent of sulfur. Beyond its natural beauty, this stark landscape holds profound religious significance as the tragic martyrdom site where dozens of Japanese Christians were tortured and executed in the boiling spring waters during the 17th-century persecutions. As part of our visit to these geothermal grounds, we will walk the wooden pathways, pause at the memorial monuments, and offer a prayer for those who suffered for their faith.
Unzen Miyazaki Ryokan
Unzen
Boasting nearly a century of refined hospitality and fully rebuilt in 2022, Unzen Miyazaki Ryokan offers an intimate blend of modern comfort and traditional Japanese elegance. Nestled inside Unzen-Amakusa National Park adjacent to the famous Unzen Jigoku ("Hells"), the property features 100% natural sulfur thermal baths drawn directly from the geothermal source, serene private gardens, and exquisite seasonal kaiseki cuisine crafted from local Shimabara Peninsula ingredients.
Sakitsu Village
Amakusa
Located on the tranquil shores of Amakusa Island, Sakitsu is a historic fishing village recognized as part of a UNESCO World Heritage site for its unique blend of Christian faith and coastal heritage. During the centuries of religious ban, local "Hidden Christians" adapted their devotion by venerating everyday objects, such as abalone shells, in place of banned religious symbols. As part of our visit to this scenic waterfront village, we will stroll through its narrow kaki alleyways and visit Sakitsu Church, whose iconic Gothic altar stands directly over a site once used for fumi-e (faith-testing) ceremonies.
Unzen Miyazaki Ryokan
Unzen
Boasting nearly a century of refined hospitality and fully rebuilt in 2022, Unzen Miyazaki Ryokan offers an intimate blend of modern comfort and traditional Japanese elegance. Nestled inside Unzen-Amakusa National Park adjacent to the famous Unzen Jigoku ("Hells"), the property features 100% natural sulfur thermal baths drawn directly from the geothermal source, serene private gardens, and exquisite seasonal kaiseki cuisine crafted from local Shimabara Peninsula ingredients.
Arima Christian Heritage Museum
Shimabara
Located near the ruins of Hara Castle in Minamishimabara, the Arima Christian Heritage Museum offers a deep look into the rich and complex history of Christianity in the Shimabara region. The museum's engaging exhibits detail the arrival of early Jesuit missionaries, the flourishment of local Christian culture, and the tragic circumstances surrounding the 1637 Shimabara Rebellion. As part of our itinerary, we will explore the museum's rare artifacts and historical displays to gain valuable context before visiting the nearby castle grounds.
Shimabara Castle
Shimabara
Dominating the landscape of Shimabara City, Shimabara Castle is an impressive five-story white fortress originally built in 1624 by the feudal lord Matsukura Shigemasa. Its excessive taxation and religious persecution triggered the famous Shimabara Rebellion of 1637–1638, a pivotal uprising of local peasants and Hidden Christians. Reconstructed in 1964, the castle now houses a museum showcasing feudal artifacts, samurai armor, and Christian historical relics, which we will explore during our visit to the grounds.
Hotel Indigo Nagasaki Glover Street
Nagasaki
Housed in a beautifully restored late-19th-century red-brick building in the historic Minamiyamate district, Hotel Indigo Nagasaki Glover Street seamlessly weaves together Nagasaki’s unique Wa-Ka-Ran (Japanese, Chinese, and Dutch) heritage. Set just steps from Oura Cathedral and Glover Garden, the hotel features stylish, story-filled rooms, serene views over the harbor and cobblestone hills, and an extraordinary restaurant—Cathedréclat—housed within a soaringly vaulted former chapel adorned with stained glass.
Dinner with Geisha at Ryotei Ichiriki
Nagasaki
Established in 1813 on Nagasaki's historic Teramachi Street, Ryotei Ichiriki is the city's oldest active Japanese restaurant, renowned for creating traditional Nagasaki Shippoku cuisine—a unique culinary fusion of Japanese, Chinese, and Western influences. Rich in Meiji Restoration history, the elegant sukiya-style establishment hosted figures like Sakamoto Ryoma and continues to showcase authentic period architecture overlooking a peaceful inner garden. As part of our special evening itinerary, we will enjoy an exclusive banquet dinner accompanied by traditional dance and musical performances by authentic Nagasaki geisha.
Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum
Nagasaki
Located near ground zero in Nagasaki, the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum houses a poignant collection of artifacts, photographs, and historical records that document the devastating August 9, 1945 detonation and its lasting aftermath. Through its vivid exhibits, the museum conveys the reality of nuclear warfare while promoting a global message of peace and nuclear abolition. As part of our visit to this solemn site, we will listen to a firsthand testimony from a hibakusha (atomic bomb survivor), offering a deeply personal and unforgettable encounter with history.
Oura Cathedral
Nagasaki
Perched on a hillside overlooking Nagasaki Harbor, Oura Cathedral is Japan's oldest surviving church, constructed in 1864 by French missionaries to honor the 26 Martyrs of Japan. Designated a National Treasure and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is famous as the setting of the 1865 "Discovery of the Hidden Christians," who secretly emerged after 250 years of underground faith. As part of our visit to this landmark sanctuary, we will explore its historic grounds and pause together for a moment of quiet prayer.
Urakami Cathedral - Mass
Nagasaki
Originally built in 1914 by local Christians after decades of persecution, Urakami Cathedral was once the largest church in the Orient before being completely destroyed by the atomic bomb in 1945. Rebuilt in 1959, the brick-tiled cathedral stands today as a powerful symbol of faith, resurrection, and peace, housing surviving relics including the famous "Atom-Bombed Mary" statue. As part of our itinerary, we will attend Mass in this monumental sanctuary, joining in prayer alongside the historic local Catholic community.
Hotel Indigo Nagasaki Glover Street
Nagasaki
Housed in a beautifully restored late-19th-century red-brick building in the historic Minamiyamate district, Hotel Indigo Nagasaki Glover Street seamlessly weaves together Nagasaki’s unique Wa-Ka-Ran (Japanese, Chinese, and Dutch) heritage. Set just steps from Oura Cathedral and Glover Garden, the hotel features stylish, story-filled rooms, serene views over the harbor and cobblestone hills, and an extraordinary restaurant—Cathedréclat—housed within a soaringly vaulted former chapel adorned with stained glass.
Shitsu Catholic Church
Nagasaki
Located in the picturesque Sotome district of Nagasaki, Shitsu Catholic Church was built in 1882 under the direction of Father Marc Marie de Rot, a French missionary who dedicated his life to serving the local community. Recognized as part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, the church features a simple, resilient architectural design built to withstand coastal typhoons while preserving the legacy of Japan's "Hidden Christians." As part of our visit to this tranquil sanctuary, we will stop to offer a personal prayer and reflect on its deep spiritual history.
Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum
Nagasaki
Located on Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan, the Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum stands directly adjacent to the historic execution site of 1597. Opened in 1962 alongside the neighboring St. Philip's Church, the museum displays rare artifacts, hidden Christian relics, and historical documents that chronicle the arrival and persecution of Christianity in Japan. As part of our visit to this memorial site, we will be given an exclusive guided tour led by the museum's director.
St. Philip Nishizaka Catholic Church
Nagasaki
Located on Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan, St. Philip Nishizaka Catholic Church was built in 1962 to commemorate the 26 Christian martyrs who were executed on the site in 1597. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Kenji Imai, the church features a distinct modern facade with twin mosaic-tiled towers inspired by Antoni Gaudí. As part of our visit to this sacred pilgrimage site, we will gather together to participate in Mass.
Hotel Sakura Ureshino
Refined, modern ryokan in Saga Prefecture known for its elegant rooftop infinity bath and skin-beautifying onsen.
St. Francis Xavier Memorial Church
Nagasaki
Situated on a scenic hill overlooking Hirado, the St. Francis Xavier Memorial Church was built in 1931 and is famous for its striking pastel-green Gothic spire. Originally named Hirado Catholic Church, it was later renamed to honor the Jesuit missionary who introduced Christianity to Japan in 1550. As part of our itinerary, we will stop for a brief visit to admire its unique architecture, where traditional Japanese temples and iconic Western spires overlap in a single iconic view.
Kasuga village
Nagasaki
Nestled on the western coast of Hirado Island, Kasuga Village is a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning terraced rice fields that cascade down to the sea. For centuries, the local community practiced their faith in secret as "Hidden Christians," preserving sacred natural sites like Mount Yasumandake without building physical church structures. As part of our visit to this tranquil landscape, we will take a guided walking tour to learn about its unique heritage and pause for a quiet moment of reflection.
Hakata Tokyu Rei Hotel
A stylish, modern hotel located just minutes from Hakata Station, offering a direct subway access to Fukuoka Airport.
Emanuele Ercole Carloni
Tour Guide
WHO IS EMANUELE ERCOLE?
Emanuele Ercole Carloni is a local tour guide and interpreter based in Unzen, working with the regional travel outfit Unzen Destination Service. A long-time local resident, he specializes in bringing the Shimabara Peninsula's dramatic past and geothermal landscapes to life. As part of our visit to Unzen, he will lead us on an insightful guided tour, introducing the region's deep Christian history, the stories of its martyrs, and its unique cultural heritage.
