A Unique Encounter with History: The Tsuwano Catholic Church Priest's Residence

Nestled in the historic castle town of Tsuwano, often called the "Little Kyoto of San'in," stands a remarkable building that tells a story of faith, perseverance, and cultural fusion. The Tsuwano Catholic Church Priest's Residence (津和野カトリック教会神父館) is a registered tangible cultural property that offers visitors a glimpse into Japan's fascinating religious history and early 20th-century Western-influenced architecture.

Built in 1917 during the Taisho period, this charming two-story wooden structure has witnessed over a century of history. Unlike many tourist destinations that draw crowds, this hidden gem remains a peaceful spot where you can contemplate the remarkable story of Christianity in this remote mountain valley.

The Historical Significance of the Priest's Residence

The Tsuwano Catholic Church Priest's Residence was registered as a national tangible cultural property on September 10, 2010. Its recognition stems from its contribution to Japan's historical landscape, serving as an excellent example of religious architecture in regional areas during the Taisho era.

This building is intrinsically connected to one of the most poignant chapters in Japanese Christian history. In 1867, during the final years of the Tokugawa shogunate, 153 Hidden Christians from Nagasaki's Urakami district were exiled to Tsuwano. These believers endured severe persecution and torture at nearby Otome Pass (乙女峠), where 37 of them ultimately became martyrs for their faith. The establishment of the Catholic church and its associated buildings, including this priest's residence, commemorates their sacrifice and unwavering devotion.

Architectural Features and Cultural Value

The priest's residence represents a fascinating blend of Western and Japanese architectural elements that was characteristic of the Taisho period. The building faces west, overlooking a traditional Japanese garden—a design choice that creates a beautiful juxtaposition of cultures.

The structure measures 13 meters in length and 5.4 meters in width, with a total building area of 69 square meters. Its architectural features include a traditional hip roof (寄棟造) covered with slate tiles, a material that was considered quite modern for the time. The exterior treatment varies between floors: the second story features weatherboard cladding (下見板張), while the first floor has wainscot paneling on the lower portion with painted board walls above.

Inside, the first floor contains practical spaces including an office, a reception room, and a dining room—spaces that would have facilitated the daily administrative and pastoral duties of the resident priests. The second floor houses three private residential rooms, providing comfortable living quarters for the clergy who served this remote mountain community.

Why Visit the Priest's Residence

Visiting the Tsuwano Catholic Church Priest's Residence offers several unique experiences that set it apart from other cultural sites in Japan.

First, it provides an intimate look at how Western religious architecture was adapted to the Japanese context during the early 20th century. The building's harmonious relationship with its Japanese garden exemplifies the cultural synthesis that occurred during this period of rapid modernization.

Second, the residence stands adjacent to the main Tsuwano Catholic Church, which itself is a registered cultural property. The church, rebuilt in 1931 in Gothic style by German priest Father Schäfer, features the rare combination of Gothic architecture with tatami-mat flooring—a testament to the thoughtful integration of Western faith practices with Japanese cultural sensibilities.

Third, visiting this site allows you to connect with the profound story of the Urakami Christians and their martyrdom. The Otome Pass Exhibition Room, located nearby, displays artifacts and documents related to this moving chapter of Japanese religious history.

Exploring the Surrounding Area

The priest's residence is located on Tonomachi Street (殿町通り), the main historic thoroughfare of Tsuwano. This picturesque street is lined with white-walled samurai residences, traditional storehouses, and water channels where hundreds of colorful koi fish swim freely.

Nearby attractions include the Yoro-kan, a former domain school where the renowned author Mori Ogai once studied, and the Tago Family Gate, an impressive reminder of the town's samurai heritage. Just a short walk away, you'll find the Taikodani Inari Shrine, one of Japan's five great Inari shrines, famous for its tunnel of vermillion torii gates.

For those interested in exploring the martyrdom history more deeply, a hike to the Otome Pass Maria Chapel is highly recommended. Built in 1951 by Father Paul Nerbe, this small chapel stands on the site where the Hidden Christians were imprisoned, featuring stained glass windows depicting scenes of their persecution.

The town also offers culinary delights such as "uzume-meshi," a local specialty where rice conceals vegetables and tofu beneath the surface—a dish that originated during times when displays of extravagance were prohibited.