Hakodate Orthodox Church
A Historic Church Echoing with Bells and International Heritage
Located in Hakodate, Hakodate Orthodox Church is an Important Cultural Property of Japan and a landmark reflecting the city's international heritage, known for its striking white walls and green roofs.
Established in 1860 as a chapel attached to the Russian Consulate, the church played an important role in introducing Orthodox Christianity to Japan when St. Nicholas arrived in Hakodate in 1861. Destroyed in the Great Fire of 1907, it was rebuilt in 1916 with local support and designated an Important Cultural Property in 1983.
Renowned for its Eastern European-style architecture, the church features white plaster walls, vivid green roofs, an octagonal bell tower, and six cross-topped cupolas. Inside, high vaulted ceilings create a serene atmosphere, while icons and an iconostasis brought from Russia enhance its solemn beauty.
Affectionately known as “Gangan-dera” for its distinctive bells, the church's chimes were selected in 1996 as one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan.” Listening to the bells during prayer times offers a memorable glimpse into Hakodate's history and its unique blend of Japanese and Russian heritage.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒040-0054
- Address
- 北海道函館市元町3-13
- Telephone Number
- 0138-23-7387
- Open
- Weekdays 10:00-17:00, Sat. 10:00-16:00, Sun. 13:00-16:00
- Closed
- Closed during winter (December 26 to mid-March)
- Directions
- ●On foot: About 15 minutes from the Jujigai streetcar stop
- Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
