Visiting 函館ハリストス正教会 (Hakodate Orthodox Church) in the historic Motomachi district during our summer road trip through southern Hokkaido was a serene, atmospheric highlight and a marvelous display of Hakodate's rich, multicultural heritage. Located just a short, scenic walk up the hillside slopes from Hachiman-Zaka and the bay area, accessing the church after parking our rental car nearby was smooth and effortless.
Known affectionately by local residents as Gangan-dera (Clang-Clang Temple) because of the melodious chime of its church bells echoing across the city on weekends, this striking landmark features delicate Russian Byzantine architectural styling. Standing on the manicured grounds under the clear summer sky, the contrast between the church's pristine white plaster walls, vibrant green onion domes, and dark roofs creates a postcard-worthy visual against the blue sky and surrounding greenery.
Walking around the serene, tree-lined garden path offers a peaceful environment to take in the intricate architectural details and sweeping views down over Hakodate Bay. Stepping inside reveals a quiet, respectful sanctuary filled with beautiful icons, intricate wood carvings, and soft candlelight that showcase the deep historical roots of the Russian Orthodox Church in Japan dating back to the mid-19th century.
Whether you are admiring its distinctive silhouette from the cobblestone streets of Motomachi or taking in its quiet garden atmosphere, stopping by the Hakodate Orthodox Church is a deeply peaceful and essential pit stop that beautifully reflects Hakodate's unique blend of Eastern and Western charm.
Church of the Resurrection of Christ is the oldest Russian Orthodox church in Japan and one of the most important Christian landmarks in the country. Located in Hakodate’s historic Motomachi district, it traces its origins to 1859, with the present building dating from 1916, rebuilt after a major fire. The pale green exterior and onion domes follow Russian Orthodox tradition, while the interior is centered around a serene iconostasis and a strong sense of sacred order.
The church is generally closed to visitors, except during services. I had the opportunity to enter on Saturday around 6:00 pm, during an evening liturgy. It was a deeply moving experience: the service was attended by a single worshipper, celebrated by two priests, with women singing the hymns. The intimacy, chanting, and stillness made it feel like a true place of prayer, where reverence and presence are genuinely felt.
Visitors are encouraged to leave a 200-yen donation to support the upkeep of the church. This is a place well worth visiting — and, if possible, experiencing during a service, regardless of one’s religious background.
A beautiful Orthodox Russian church across the street from the Roman Catholic Church, an Angelican church, and a Buddhist temple. This is the hill of spiritual houses.
A voluntary donation of ¥200 requested. Very small inside. No photography allowed inside.
This church is very photogenic. It’s worth a visit if you are in the area.
