Holy Zion’s Park St. Valentine

Holy Zion's Park St. Valentine stands as a distinctive Catholic church prominently located just north of the shinkansen line in Fukuyama, Hiroshima Prefecture. This striking architectural landmark creates an unexpected sight for travelers passing through the region, with many visitors noting the surprising appearance of a European-style church amidst the Japanese urban landscape.

The church primarily serves as a wedding venue, representing the growing trend of Western-style Christian ceremonies in Japan. The venue is specifically used for weddings, offering couples a unique blend of Western religious architecture within a Japanese setting. The building's design reflects traditional church architecture with notable visual appeal that has made it a recognizable landmark in the area.

Visitors can admire the church's exterior architecture and grounds during daylight hours. The structure can be viewed from Fukuyama Castle, located approximately 10-15 minutes walking distance away. The church's positioning makes it visible to passengers on the shinkansen bullet train traveling between Okayama and Hiroshima, creating memorable moments for railway travelers who catch glimpses of this unexpected architectural feature.

The venue is located in Fukuyama city center, making it accessible for visitors exploring the area's other attractions including the historic Fukuyama Castle. The church is situated east of Higashi Fukuyama JR station, providing convenient access via Japan's extensive railway network. While primarily functioning as a private wedding venue, the exterior can be appreciated by tourists and photography enthusiasts interested in unique architectural contrasts within Japanese cityscapes.

Transportation to the site is facilitated through Fukuyama Station on the JR San'yo Main Line and Shinkansen network, with local walking access to the church grounds. The location at 2-7-1 Nishimachi, Fukuyama places it within the city's central district, allowing visitors to combine their visit with exploration of nearby Fukuyama Castle and other local attractions.