Unzen jigoku Martyrdom from 1626

When Matsukura Shigemasa became the new feudal lord of Shimabara in 1616,

a large portion of the population was Christian.

Initially, he turned a blind eye to Christianity because he needed the cooperation of

the local people to construct Shimabara Castle. However, once the Tokugawa

Shogunate became aware of the situation, Shigemasa was strictly ordered to force

the Christians in Shimabara to convert.

Starting in 1627, Christians who refused to apostatize were persecuted using the

scalding waters of Unzen Jigoku (Unzen Hell). Many believers were brought to

these boiling springs and martyred for their faith.

Unzen Church is dedicated to Father Antonio Ishida and his companions who were

martyred at Unzen Hell. Every May, a martyrdom festival is held to honor their memory.

Today, Unzen Jigoku is the most popular tourist attraction in Unzen. “Jigoku” means

“Hell,” a name inspired by the striking landscape where white steam and boiling water

rise from the ground over a vast area. The air is filled with the distinct scent of sulfur,

serving as a powerful reminder that the Unzen volcano is still very much active.