Nakanoura Church

Nakanoura Church (カトリック中ノ浦教会) is a quaint wooden chapel nestled beside a quiet cove on Nakadori Island. Built in 1925, the church is modest in size but rich in character, reflecting the quiet resilience of the local Christian community. Inside, the walls are adorned with hand-painted camellia flowers—an iconic motif of the Goto Islands that symbolizes both beauty and endurance. The interplay of wood, light, and floral imagery creates an atmosphere of warmth and gentle reverence, inviting visitors to pause and take in the spiritual legacy that continues to shape the island's identity.

Outside, the charm continues with a serene Lourdes grotto tucked among the greenery near the entrance, offering a peaceful space for contemplation. The church’s coastal setting enhances its appeal, surrounded by forested slopes and the calm waters of the bay, where the only sounds are the breeze and the occasional lapping of waves. Nakanoura Church blends faith, nature, and artistry in a way that feels both intimate and authentic—an ideal stop for travelers seeking a deeper connection to the island’s history and landscape.