St Francis Xavier Memorial Church 山口サビエル記念聖堂

The white walls and dramatically sloping roof of Yamaguchi Xavier Memorial Church set it apart from the surrounding buildings, as do its angular walls and modernist stained glass. However, the historical legacy the church represents is what makes it a fascinating place to visit.

The church is easily accessible from JR Yamaguchi Station.

Just over one kilometer from Yamaguchi Station, Yamaguchi Xavier Memorial Church is a 20-minute walk or five-minute taxi ride away.

Francis Xavier (1506–1552), a Roman Catholic missionary and Jesuit priest who was the first Christian missionary to reach Japan in 1549, spent four or five months in Yamaguchi. This church, built in 1952 on the 400th anniversary of Xavier's death and then rebuilt in 1998 after a fire, is dedicated to his memory.

When Francis Xavier introduced Christianity to Japan in 1549, many people initially followed his teachings and adopted the new religion. However, the feudal lords resented this outside incursion. Although Christianity was outlawed, the practice continued in secret, and those found guilty of Christianity were cruelly persecuted.

You can still find many sites in Yamaguchi associated with kakure kirishitan, or hidden Christians, such as graves around Mt. Shibuki near Hagi City.

Relax after your visit by taking a trip to Yuda Onsen, an area of downtown Yamaguchi renowned for its hot springs and footbaths, located two kilometers away. Rent a bicycle for the day from outside the station to get around easily.