Catholic Motomachi Church
A historic sanctuary guarding Japan’s only papal altar
Catholic Motomachi Church is a landmark of faith and history in Hakodate’s Motomachi district. It houses the only altar in Japan presented by a Pope, giving it exceptional cultural and spiritual significance.
Founded in 1859 by French missionary Mermet-Cachon, the church was rebuilt in its current Gothic style in 1924. Its 33-meter bell tower and sharply pointed roof rise gracefully into the sky, forming a striking silhouette within Hakodate’s European-influenced cityscape. The pure white exterior stands vividly against the blue sky, quietly welcoming visitors with dignified elegance.
Step inside, and the bustle of the city gives way to a deep stillness. Soft light filters through intricate stained glass, casting gentle colors across the floor and filling the sanctuary with a serene, reverent atmosphere. The altar, gifted by Pope Benedict XV as a gesture of sympathy following a fire, reflects more than a century of history through its rich, detailed wood carvings. As the church bells echo through the streets, visitors can truly feel the enduring faith and heritage preserved within this sacred space.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Category
- With friends
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General Information
- Postal code
- 〒040-0054
- Address
- 北海道函館市元町15-30
- Telephone Number
- 0138-22-6877
- Open
- 10:00-16:00 (Sunday mornings, except during worship services)
- Closed
- December 30 - January 5, when the cathedral is in use
- Car Park
- Paid parking available nearby
- Directions
- ●By car: About 10 minutes from JR Hakodate Station
●On foot: About 10 minutes from "Jujigai" streetcar stop
●By car: About 15 minutes from Hakodate Airport - Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
