Sakitsu-Tenshudo Church

KUMAMOTO CULTURE

©AFLO

Sakitsu-Tenshudo Church was built overlooking the tranquil waters of Yokaku Bay on the Sakitsu coast. It was first established by Portuguese missionary Father Almeida, who succeeded in spreading Christianity within the area. Following the ban on Christianity in 1638, the church was violently oppressed, being the location where religious images were trampled as a test of faith, but protected followers for 240 years who worshipped in hiding. The present church was constructed in 1934 under the guidance of Father Halbout, and features a Gothic design with high steeples and an interior with tatami flooring.