Otome Toge Maria Chapel

The Otome Toge Maria Chapel (乙女峠マリア聖堂, Otome Tōge Maria Seidō), located west of Tsuwano Station, was built in 1951 to honor the Japanese Christians who were persecuted during the Meiji Period. This small chapel stands amidst the woods, offering a peaceful place of reflection. In the 19th century, during the Edo Period, Christianity was banned in Japan, but some Christians secretly continued their faith. After the Meiji Restoration, they were sent to Tsuwano and forced to renounce their beliefs. A monument near the chapel tells the story of one Christian who endured torture, remaining steadfast due to nightly visions of the Virgin Mary.

The chapel serves as a reminder of the resilience of Japanese Christians. It stands in memory of the 36 individuals who suffered and died, refusing to abandon their faith. The chapel and its surrounding monument are a significant historical site, symbolizing courage and devotion during Japan’s era of religious persecution.