The 26 Martyrs Museum

The 26 Martyrs Museum is dedicated to the 26 Christians who were executed

here on February 5, 1597. The group included both foreign missionaries and

Japanese laymen. Missionary activities were prohibited at the time, and

Japan’s ruler, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, ordered the execution as a warning to

others. The monument is located in a small park on a hill just a short distance

from Nagasaki Station, offering lovely views over the city.

A straight red line runs from the monument across the park’s plaza, pointing

directly toward Oura Cathedral on the other side of the city. Notably,

Oura Cathedral is also dedicated to the 26 martyrs.

The museum behind the monument is devoted to the memory of the martyrs and

the history of Christianity in Japan. Its interior is reminiscent of a church, complete

with beautiful stained-glass windows that create a serene atmosphere for viewing

the exhibits. On display are various artifacts related to early Japanese Christianity,

including historical documents, statues, and religious items.