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Be overwhelmed by the beauty and solemn atmosphere of one of the country's oldest churches, known for its blue cathedral.
Built by French missionary Father Mermet de Cashon when he entered Hakodate in 1859, the Motomachi Roman Catholic Church was rebuilt in 1910. It adopts the 12th-century Gothic architectural style, featuring a pointed bell tower soaring 33 meters high, a distinctive feature of the church. It is one of the oldest Catholic churches in Japan, alongside those established in Yokohama and Nagasaki.
Entering the church, you'll notice the high ceilings and sharp arches. The ceiling, a mix of gray and blue, is dotted with multifaceted silver stars. Coupled with the reliefs of the Passion and the stained glass, the beauty of the cathedral is overwhelming. Knowing that the central altar, side altars, and reliefs were gifts from Pope Benedict XV adds to the solemn atmosphere. These are made by renowned workshops in Italy, recognized as important cultural assets in various countries.
Motomachi Roman Catholic Church is characterized by its 33-meter-high bell tower.
The church transforms into an even more fantastical space when lit up at night, especially recommended during the snowy winter season when the light up and snow create a beautiful scene.
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This church was built in the late 19th century and still holds religious activities today. When we visited, there was a Catholic gathering going on, so we just took a look from outside and moved on.
The altar inside the church was a gift from the Pope and is beautifully detailed—really luxurious and precious. There's also a 10-story bell tower outside, and the weathercock on top is said to bring blessings and protection. It's a landmark in the Motomachi area and definitely unique.
