Oso Church

Oso Church (カトリック大曽教会) is a striking red-brick chapel perched on a quiet hillside overlooking a calm bay on Nakadori Island. Completed in 1916, the church is best known for its distinctive octagonal bell tower—a rare architectural feature that sets it apart from other churches in the Goto Islands. Built by local Christian communities who once practiced their faith in secret, the church reflects both spiritual resilience and the craftsmanship of a bygone era. As you approach, the tower rises above the trees, framed by the sea on one side and gentle, forested slopes on the other—a setting that feels both sacred and timeless.

The grounds around Oso Church are peaceful and uncrowded, making it easy to appreciate the structure’s beauty and its natural surroundings. Inside, soft light filters through simple stained-glass windows, illuminating wooden pews and an unadorned altar that speaks to the humble devotion of its builders. Visitors can pause for quiet reflection while taking in panoramic views of the inlet below. The path leading to the church winds through a traditional village, offering glimpses of everyday island life and grounding the church in its cultural landscape. Oso Church invites exploration not only of its spiritual heritage but also of the deep harmony between architecture, history, and the natural world of the Goto Islands.