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.
Small Russian orthodox church. You do have to pay a small fee to get in. We wouldn't mind it, except they won't allow any photograph, even without flash. So I don't think it's worth it as I've seen and photographed the interiors of many Russian orthodox church in Eastern Europe like in Sofia, Bulgaria, which is a lot bigger and lot more impressive. That said, you can capture the exterior and see the series of nice onion domes that is characteristic of Russian orthodox churches.
Beautiful small church. The colours are fabulous and it’s a stunning photo. This entire neighbourhood is truly special and was one of my favourite things I experienced in Hakkodate.
