What other travelers are saying about Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum and Monument
Excellent, moving tribute to 26 Catholic priests and converts executed for their beliefs in the 16th century. Museum includes good displays on Catholic missionary work in Japan, the persecution of Japanese converts, and the "Hidden Christians" who kept the faith during the Edo Period.
More about Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum and Monument from our blog
Frequently Asked Questions
The group consisted of 20 Japanese laymen, 4 Japanese priests, and 2 Spanish Franciscans – all of whom had converted to Christianity. They came from various parts of Japan and were arrested in Kyoto and Osaka before being forced to march to Nagasaki, where they were executed.
Visitors can view a collection of Christian artifacts, including relics, documents, and items that tell the story of Christianity in Japan, the lives of the martyrs, and the broader context of religious persecution during that time.
The museum is accessible by public transportation from Nagasaki Station. Visitors can take the tram (streetcar) to the "Nishi-zaka" or "26 Martyrs Museum" stop, from where it's a short walk to the museum.
The museum and monument are open year-round, but visiting on February 5th, the anniversary of the martyrdom offers a unique opportunity to participate in commemorative events. Check the museum's schedule for special exhibits or events throughout the year.
beautiful and really informative museum, perhaps a but dry of you’re looking for a short visit or if its busy? There were two large tours arriving as we left so Id suggest ( as with most things in Japan) arrive early or late.
The maps of Nagasaki and Japan and the letters - dating from 15C were fascinating.
This museum has an amazing history and is very detailed. It can take a few hours to take everything in. Its definitely a must visit place for any Christian who wants to see how Christianity entered Japan amd how it has survived and is being strengthened in current time.
The museum is not that big, I stayed 1 hour because I really, really took my time since the entrance was 500¥. Everyone else that came in got out after 5 to 20 minutes. There were some impressive artifacts, but I felt like a good part of the exhibit was not specific to Nagasaki and what happened there.
Went to Nagasaki for the atomic bomb but the discovered this nice museum. I learn a lot about missionary in Japan from this place. I watched Silence by martin Scorcese so this place remind me a lot about the movie.
