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Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum

4.3
·822 reviews·Nagasaki, Japan

A solemn museum and monument on Nishizaka Hill, commemorating the 26 Christians martyred in 1597. Offers deep historical insight into faith and resili...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer tour groups

CrowdLow
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Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum - Image 1

Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer tour groups

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A solemn museum and monument on Nishizaka Hill, commemorating the 26 Christians martyred in 1597. Offers deep historical insight into faith and resilience in Japan.

4.3
(822 reviews)

"Standing on the place where 26 true Christians died for their faith touched my heart. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early or Late

Beat the crowds from tour groups by visiting right at opening or before closing. :clock1:

⏳ Allow Ample Time

To fully appreciate the detailed exhibits, dedicate at least 1-2 hours to your visit. :hourglass:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Martyrdom Site

The Martyrdom Site

Nishizaka Hill

Stand where 26 Christians were martyred in 1597, a deeply moving experience of courage and faith.

Reddit
Historical Artifacts

Historical Artifacts

Museum Exhibits

Explore fascinating letters and maps from the 15th century, offering a glimpse into early missionary efforts.

Reddit
Monument to the Martyrs

Monument to the Martyrs

Nishizaka Hill

A solemn monument commemorating the 100th anniversary of the canonization of the 26 martyrs.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Deeper Dive

This museum offers a profound look at Christian history in Japan. To truly absorb the detailed exhibits and artifacts, plan for at least 1-2 hours. Arriving early or late can help you avoid crowds from tour groups, ensuring a more contemplative experience. Reddit

Understand the Historical Context

The museum commemorates the 26 Christians martyred in 1597. Familiarizing yourself with this history, perhaps by watching films like 'Silence,' can significantly enhance your understanding and emotional connection to the site. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer tour groups
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Avoid peak crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Finally got to see the guinea pig bridge in Nagasaki. They were so cute and made me miss my piggies at home 🥹 #guineapig #guineapigbridge #nagasaki #nagasakibiopark #PAW #japan #pettok
@temtaytomie
713.6K likes • 6.5M views

🎯 Arrive Early or Late

Beat the crowds from tour groups by visiting right at opening or before closing. Reddit :clock1:

⏳ Allow Ample Time

To fully appreciate the detailed exhibits, dedicate at least 1-2 hours to your visit. Reddit :hourglass:

The Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum and Monument #nagasaki #japan
hyoung.42
25 likes • 436 views
#長崎 #26聖人記念館 と#聖フィリッポ西坂教会 の写真を集めたものです #twentysixmartyrsmuseum and #nishizakachurch In #nagasaki
mosaic_art_gallery_cakera
25 likes • 198 views

🎬 Watch 'Silence' First

Watching Martin Scorsese's 'Silence' can deepen your understanding and emotional connection. Reddit :movie_camera:

💰 Modest Entrance Fee

The entrance fee is 500 JPY, which is reasonable for the historical insights provided. Reddit :moneybag:

The Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum and Monument were built on Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki, Japan in June 1962 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the canonization by the Roman Catholic Church of the Christians executed on the site on February 5, 1597. #biyahenicarleaux
carleaux22
9 likes • 197 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early or Late

Beat the crowds from tour groups by visiting right at opening or before closing. Reddit :clock1:

⏳ Allow Ample Time

To fully appreciate the detailed exhibits, dedicate at least 1-2 hours to your visit. Reddit :hourglass:

🎬 Watch 'Silence' First

Watching Martin Scorsese's 'Silence' can deepen your understanding and emotional connection. Reddit :movie_camera:

💰 Modest Entrance Fee

The entrance fee is 500 JPY, which is reasonable for the historical insights provided. Reddit :moneybag:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(822 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum to be a beautiful and informative site, offering deep historical insights into Christianity in Japan and the 1597 martyrdom. While some find it a bit dry or prefer a shorter visit, many appreciate the detailed exhibits and the profound experience of standing on the historical martyrdom site. Reddit

"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."

Ockto Baringbing

"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."

Clare Huggett

"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."

Antolin Mendoza

What People Like

Profound historical insights
Moving martyrdom site
Fascinating artifacts

What People Dislike

Can be dry/slow
Exhibit specificity

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located on Nishizaka Hill in Nagasaki. It's accessible by public transport, often a short bus ride or a walk from Nagasaki Station. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when exploring other Nagasaki attractions. Instagram+1

Yes, it's often visited in conjunction with other Nagasaki sites. Its location makes it a good addition to a Nagasaki itinerary. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is typically 500 JPY. It's a modest price for the historical depth offered. Reddit

Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but the standard entrance fee is quite affordable for the experience. It's always worth checking their official website or inquiring at the entrance. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but generally, the museum is open during daytime hours. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current operating times before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

While some visitors spend only 5-20 minutes, a more thorough visit to absorb the detailed exhibits and historical context can take 1-2 hours. Reddit

It can be a quick visit if you focus on the main highlights, but the museum is 'a bit dry' if you're looking for a short experience, especially if it's busy. Reddit

You'll find historical artifacts, maps, letters from the 15th century, and displays detailing the history of Christianity in Japan and the martyrdom of the 26 Christians. Reddit

The museum primarily focuses on historical displays, artifacts, and information. While not highly interactive in a modern sense, the exhibits are designed to be informative and engaging for those interested in history. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself typically does not have extensive dining facilities. However, Nagasaki city offers numerous restaurants and cafes nearby, especially around Nagasaki Station. Instagram

It's generally recommended to consume food and drinks outside the museum exhibits to preserve the artifacts and maintain a respectful atmosphere. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. It's best to look for signage within the museum or ask staff. Often, flash photography is prohibited to protect artifacts. Instagram+1

The monument on Nishizaka Hill offers a striking visual. The exterior of the museum and the surrounding grounds can also be photogenic. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum offers significant historical and religious insights, it might be less engaging for very young children due to its detailed and somber nature. The exhibits focus on historical accounts and martyrdom, which can be a heavy topic. If visiting with children, consider focusing on the visual aspects of the monument and the historical context of Nagasaki. Instagram+1

For a more engaging experience for younger visitors, you might want to pair this visit with other Nagasaki attractions that have broader appeal. However, for older children or teens interested in history and religion, the museum can be a valuable educational stop, offering a different perspective on Japan's past. Reddit

🙏 Christian Pilgrims

For Christian pilgrims, the Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum is a profoundly significant site. Standing on Nishizaka Hill, the very ground where the martyrs met their end, is a deeply spiritual experience. Reddit The museum provides extensive historical context about the introduction and persecution of Christianity in Japan, making it a crucial stop for understanding the faith's journey in the country. Reddit

Many find the exhibits, including letters and artifacts from the era, to be incredibly moving. It's a place to connect with the history of faith, sacrifice, and resilience. Consider watching 'Silence' beforehand to enhance your appreciation of the historical narrative. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of the 26 Martyrs

The Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum in Nagasaki stands as a poignant memorial to a tragic event in Japanese Christian history. On February 5, 1597, 26 Christians, including Franciscan friars, Japanese converts, and foreign missionaries, were publicly executed on Nishizaka Hill. This act of martyrdom was ordered by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who feared the growing influence of Christianity and foreign powers in Japan. The executions were carried out by crucifixion and spearing, a brutal display intended to deter others from embracing the faith. Instagram

The museum, established in 1962 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of their canonization by the Roman Catholic Church, delves into the stories of these individuals. Visitors can learn about their journeys, their unwavering faith, and the historical context that led to their deaths. The exhibits often include letters, maps, and artifacts that provide a tangible connection to this period. Reddit

For many visitors, particularly Christians, standing on the actual site of martyrdom is a deeply moving experience. It's a place to reflect on the sacrifices made for faith and the resilience of Christianity in Japan, a narrative that continues to be strengthened today. Reddit

Navigating the Museum Experience

The Twenty-Six Martyrs Museum is described as beautiful and informative, but it can also be perceived as 'a bit dry' by some visitors, especially if it's crowded. Reddit To make the most of your visit, timing is crucial. Arriving early or late in the day is highly recommended to avoid large tour groups that can make the experience feel rushed or overwhelming. Reddit

Plan to spend at least 1 to 2 hours here if you want to truly absorb the details. While some visitors might get through it in 20 minutes, others take their time to appreciate the historical depth. The museum houses impressive artifacts, including fascinating maps and letters dating back to the 15th century, offering a unique window into Japan's past. Reddit

While the museum focuses on the specific martyrdom event, some reviewers noted that a portion of the exhibit felt less specific to Nagasaki and the 26 martyrs themselves. However, for those interested in how Christianity entered and survived in Japan, it's considered a must-visit. Reddit

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