26 Martyrs Museum
26 Martyrs Museum
4.5
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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4.5
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cjbh
Salt Lake City, UT159 contributions
Nov 2019
I skipped this museum several times because the exterior must win the award for the Most Ugly Museum. After I finally went, I realize that's because the story it tells is pretty ugly, too. On the other hand, it's also a story of faith.
The Interior is much better, with colorful stained glass and some original artifacts, many not found anywhere else. Upstairs are some genuine Maria Kannon (small statues of the Virgin Mary disguised as the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Kannon) which were used for worship by Hidden Christians. There's also a wall-size picture/painting of the martyrdom of the 26 Christians that you will have seen in other places about Hidden Christians. This might actually be the original.
The 26 Martyrs of Nagasaki in 1597 are the most well known of the Christian martyrs in Japan, but there were literally thousands of others. Probably over 100,000 and maybe 200,000 were eventually killed over the next 50-100 years for their Christian (Catholic) faith. The rest either recanted or went into hiding. They are known as the Hidden Christians.
If you are interested in Hidden Christians, here's 3 other great museums:
1. Shimabara Castle, out on the far eastern side of the Shimabara Peninsula, is a museum with a whole floor devoted to the Shimabara Rebellion (executed 37,000 Christians) and the Hidden Christians.
2. Shima No Yokata: Museum of Ikitsuki on Ikitsuki Island, has the 1st floor devoted to whaling (former occupation of the islanders) and the 2nd floor to the Hidden Christians, who were quite prominent there. The most interesting part is a "house" showing how they hid their religion. To get there: Drive north of Sasebo to the NW tip of Kyushu, take the Golden Gate Bridge (replica) to Hirado Island (worth a day trip just by itself), then drive across the island to the NW tip of Hirado, and take the blue bridge to Ikitsuki Island. No tolls, gorgeous drive. The museum is a couple of blocks from the blue bridge.
3. Oura Cathedral in Nagasaki is where the Hidden Christians were "Discovered."
The church has a museum to the Hidden Christians in the old seminary building, right next to the church. If you climb the stairs up to face the church, stay on that level, and go around the right side of the building. The building beside you on your right is the museum. I think it's free. The entrance to the museum is on the side facing away from the road.
The Interior is much better, with colorful stained glass and some original artifacts, many not found anywhere else. Upstairs are some genuine Maria Kannon (small statues of the Virgin Mary disguised as the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Kannon) which were used for worship by Hidden Christians. There's also a wall-size picture/painting of the martyrdom of the 26 Christians that you will have seen in other places about Hidden Christians. This might actually be the original.
The 26 Martyrs of Nagasaki in 1597 are the most well known of the Christian martyrs in Japan, but there were literally thousands of others. Probably over 100,000 and maybe 200,000 were eventually killed over the next 50-100 years for their Christian (Catholic) faith. The rest either recanted or went into hiding. They are known as the Hidden Christians.
If you are interested in Hidden Christians, here's 3 other great museums:
1. Shimabara Castle, out on the far eastern side of the Shimabara Peninsula, is a museum with a whole floor devoted to the Shimabara Rebellion (executed 37,000 Christians) and the Hidden Christians.
2. Shima No Yokata: Museum of Ikitsuki on Ikitsuki Island, has the 1st floor devoted to whaling (former occupation of the islanders) and the 2nd floor to the Hidden Christians, who were quite prominent there. The most interesting part is a "house" showing how they hid their religion. To get there: Drive north of Sasebo to the NW tip of Kyushu, take the Golden Gate Bridge (replica) to Hirado Island (worth a day trip just by itself), then drive across the island to the NW tip of Hirado, and take the blue bridge to Ikitsuki Island. No tolls, gorgeous drive. The museum is a couple of blocks from the blue bridge.
3. Oura Cathedral in Nagasaki is where the Hidden Christians were "Discovered."
The church has a museum to the Hidden Christians in the old seminary building, right next to the church. If you climb the stairs up to face the church, stay on that level, and go around the right side of the building. The building beside you on your right is the museum. I think it's free. The entrance to the museum is on the side facing away from the road.
Written January 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ANParish
Busan, South Korea1,028 contributions
Jan 2023
We made it here shortly before the museum closed, so we didn't see much of that part. However, even if you don't visit the museum, the monument itself is worth a visit. It's conveniently close to the Nagasaki Station area, and it gives some great views of the city below. If you're not visiting the museum, it's free, and it marks an important piece of Nagasaki (and Japanese) history.
Written February 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
brixtontrev
United Kingdom1,730 contributions
Nov 2022
Though this is an excellent museum the stories behind it are very sad. Located across from the main Nagasaki Station its a short walk up a steep hill to the museum behind the NHK building. The main monument is a testament to those who were martyred including 12, 13 and 14 year old converts. The actual site of their martyrdom is marked by a pillar. Behind the main monument is the entrance to the museum. The museum reflects the more visible popularity of Christianity in Kyushu. The exhibits are well laid out and show the shocking historical brutality of the Japanese towards Catholicism. A really worthwhile museum to visit to get a more rounded picture of the historical influence of Catholicism in Japan, and Nagasaki which, historically, for a while used to be a Portuguese city.
Written December 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kimitaka S
Taichung, Taiwan15,598 contributions
Sep 2020 • Solo
Behind 26 martyrs monument, there is a museum about Christian culture and history in Nagasaki. Even Mother Theresa once came to visit this place. Many old documents are displayed, and it is a little bit tiresome to read all of them. However, to get a general idea about Christianity in Nagasaki, it is worth visiting.
Written September 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Letsgoonatriphoney
Prince William County, VA416 contributions
Sep 2023 • Family
We recently had the profound privilege of visiting the 26 Martyrs Museum in Nagasaki, Japan, and the experience left an indelible mark on my heart and soul. This museum is a testament to the courage, resilience, and enduring spirit of the 26 Christian martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their beliefs in the 17th century.
The museum's location, overlooking the tranquil Nagasaki Bay, sets the stage for an emotionally charged and historically significant experience. The meticulously designed exhibits walk you through the tragic events of February 5, 1597, when 26 individuals, both Japanese and foreign, were martyred for their Christian faith.
The museum's architecture is captivating, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary elements. Upon entering, you're immediately immersed in a space that pays homage to the martyrs, effectively conveying the depth of their sacrifice through carefully curated displays, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.
One of the most moving aspects of the museum is the vivid depiction of the martyrs' stories. The narrative unfolds through a combination of detailed visuals, multimedia presentations, and heartfelt testimonials from their descendants. These personal accounts breathe life into the history, evoking a strong sense of empathy and connection.
The chronological arrangement of the exhibits helps visitors grasp the timeline of events leading to the martyrdom, offering valuable insights into the cultural, religious, and political climate of that era. The preservation of original artifacts, such as personal belongings, writings, and historical documents, adds an authentic touch to the museum's presentation.
The museum's ambiance is serene and contemplative, inviting visitors to reflect on the resilience of the martyrs and the role they played in shaping Nagasaki's unique cultural heritage.
In conclusion, the 26 Martyrs Museum is a must-visit when in Nagasaki. It is a powerful reminder of the human capacity for bravery and conviction, leaving visitors with a lasting appreciation for the sacrifices made by these remarkable individuals. The museum's dedication to preserving their memory is commendable, and the emotional impact of this experience is truly transformative.
The museum's location, overlooking the tranquil Nagasaki Bay, sets the stage for an emotionally charged and historically significant experience. The meticulously designed exhibits walk you through the tragic events of February 5, 1597, when 26 individuals, both Japanese and foreign, were martyred for their Christian faith.
The museum's architecture is captivating, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary elements. Upon entering, you're immediately immersed in a space that pays homage to the martyrs, effectively conveying the depth of their sacrifice through carefully curated displays, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.
One of the most moving aspects of the museum is the vivid depiction of the martyrs' stories. The narrative unfolds through a combination of detailed visuals, multimedia presentations, and heartfelt testimonials from their descendants. These personal accounts breathe life into the history, evoking a strong sense of empathy and connection.
The chronological arrangement of the exhibits helps visitors grasp the timeline of events leading to the martyrdom, offering valuable insights into the cultural, religious, and political climate of that era. The preservation of original artifacts, such as personal belongings, writings, and historical documents, adds an authentic touch to the museum's presentation.
The museum's ambiance is serene and contemplative, inviting visitors to reflect on the resilience of the martyrs and the role they played in shaping Nagasaki's unique cultural heritage.
In conclusion, the 26 Martyrs Museum is a must-visit when in Nagasaki. It is a powerful reminder of the human capacity for bravery and conviction, leaving visitors with a lasting appreciation for the sacrifices made by these remarkable individuals. The museum's dedication to preserving their memory is commendable, and the emotional impact of this experience is truly transformative.
Written October 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
J&S_Singapore
Singapore, Singapore6,160 contributions
Nov 2017 • Couples
Our first stop upon reaching Nagasaki, after 1.5 hrs from Hakata..
We walked a 15 mins slight uphill to the site, like a plaza, an open space area. Can be quite a challenging hike I would say, so be a little prepared.
Both the Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum and Monument were built on Nishizaka Hill in 1962 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the canonization by the Roman Catholic Church of the Christians executed on the same site on February 5, 1597. The Martyrs Memorial St. Philip's Church (Nishizaka Church) is just behind them.
Entry fee is 500 yen. The Museum showcases the History of Christianity in Japan, focusing on the Events /Incidents leading to the Death of the 26 as well as many more Christians during the religion- oppression by the Shogunate. Be ‘lost’ in reading and viewing the many relics, letters and stories surrounding the persecuted Christians.
The 26 people, a mixture of 20 native Japanese Christians and 6 foreign priests had been arrested in Kyoto and Osaka on the order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, for preaching Christianity.
The museum's collection also includes important historical articles from both Japan and Europe (such as original letters from the Jesuit priest St Francis Xavier),
There were plenty of English explanations which is helpful to us. We spent a good 1.5 hours appreciating the exhibits and the most touching part for me is reading the brief description of each of the martyrs; right up to the moment they were lanced at the cross. It is really moving!
An excellent Museum. I am a free-thinker but to read about their stories and conviction really moves me.
And what a time to review this visit and article when Christmas is barely 2-days away!!
We walked a 15 mins slight uphill to the site, like a plaza, an open space area. Can be quite a challenging hike I would say, so be a little prepared.
Both the Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum and Monument were built on Nishizaka Hill in 1962 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the canonization by the Roman Catholic Church of the Christians executed on the same site on February 5, 1597. The Martyrs Memorial St. Philip's Church (Nishizaka Church) is just behind them.
Entry fee is 500 yen. The Museum showcases the History of Christianity in Japan, focusing on the Events /Incidents leading to the Death of the 26 as well as many more Christians during the religion- oppression by the Shogunate. Be ‘lost’ in reading and viewing the many relics, letters and stories surrounding the persecuted Christians.
The 26 people, a mixture of 20 native Japanese Christians and 6 foreign priests had been arrested in Kyoto and Osaka on the order of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, for preaching Christianity.
The museum's collection also includes important historical articles from both Japan and Europe (such as original letters from the Jesuit priest St Francis Xavier),
There were plenty of English explanations which is helpful to us. We spent a good 1.5 hours appreciating the exhibits and the most touching part for me is reading the brief description of each of the martyrs; right up to the moment they were lanced at the cross. It is really moving!
An excellent Museum. I am a free-thinker but to read about their stories and conviction really moves me.
And what a time to review this visit and article when Christmas is barely 2-days away!!
Written December 22, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sammy N
Los Angeles871 contributions
Apr 2018 • Family
Have you seen the motion picture SILENCE? Please watch at least once before visiting the Hill & Museum .. .. Martin Scorsese used the museum as source for making SILENCE and made copies of the irreplaceable letters stored here to be used as a gift for POPE FRANCIS who asked to watch the movie TWICE!
Fascinating, emotional, and informative, almost every exhibit is also explained in English so don't be afraid to visit .. ..
TIP > Although the Museum is almost across the street from NAGASAKI STATION, the hill is steep so don't be afraid to hail a cab for the short 500Y trip up the hill .. .. Try to have a map (in Japanese) to show the cab driver because not everyone knows (or heard of) the museum .. ..
AN AMAZING EXHIBIT OF FAITH & DEVOTION!!
Fascinating, emotional, and informative, almost every exhibit is also explained in English so don't be afraid to visit .. ..
TIP > Although the Museum is almost across the street from NAGASAKI STATION, the hill is steep so don't be afraid to hail a cab for the short 500Y trip up the hill .. .. Try to have a map (in Japanese) to show the cab driver because not everyone knows (or heard of) the museum .. ..
AN AMAZING EXHIBIT OF FAITH & DEVOTION!!
Written April 9, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John E
Sendai, Japan63 contributions
Jul 2017 • Solo
I'm glad I spent the 500 yen to go into the museum. There were plenty of English explanations. The presentations went way beyond the 26 martyrs to a broader history of Christianity in Japan. For me, the brief description of each of the martyrs was most surprising and moving. (Several were children.)
Written July 23, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hfot2 🌸🍁🌸
Vermont7,691 contributions
Mar 2014 • Couples
Be sure to visit St Philip Church across from the 26 Martyrs Shrine.
Designed by Kenji Imai, it will bring to mind the work of Gaudi in Barcelona.
An easy uphill walk from the JR station - you can see the unusual spires of the church on the hill top as you approach.
Designed by Kenji Imai, it will bring to mind the work of Gaudi in Barcelona.
An easy uphill walk from the JR station - you can see the unusual spires of the church on the hill top as you approach.
Written May 29, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David N
Hawthorne, CA5,883 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
Prior to this trip, I knew nothing about the 26 martyrs of Nagasaki who were later canonized by the Roman Catholic Church. This museum provides an excellent background into the introduction of Christianity to Japan and the history of these unfortunate murders. Thankfully, this information is available in both English and Japanese. Many artifacts from the era are also exhibited. I was also very interested to learn about the Kakure Christians, who took their faith underground in the 1600s when Christianity was banned.
There is a small entrance fee and also a modest gift shop.
There is a small entrance fee and also a modest gift shop.
Written October 21, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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