Xavier Church

The Xavier Church (サビエル記念聖堂, Sabieru Kinen Seidō) in Yamaguchi honors the Jesuit missionary who played a pivotal role in spreading Christianity across Asia in the 1500s. Francis Xavier, who traveled to Japan in 1549, made a significant stop in Yamaguchi in 1550 while on his journey from Kagoshima to Kyoto. Yamaguchi became one of his favored places during his mission.

Built in 1952, the church tragically burned down in 1991, but the current structure was reconstructed in 1998. The modern church offers a beautifully designed interior with a museum on the first floor, displaying Christian art, statues, clothing, and maps highlighting Xavier’s journey. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those interested in Japan’s early Christian history.