14-DAY JAPAN

After breakfast, we’ll start our day at the Monument and Museum of the Twenty-Six Martyrs, exploring the inspiring stories of these saints, particularly St. Paul Miki’s journey of forgiveness, and viewing original letters by St. Francis Xavier. Next, we’ll attend Mass at St. Maximilian Kolbe’s Hongochi Church and enjoy a peaceful walk at the Lourdes Grotto, including a rosary prayer. Our day will continue with visits to the St. Kolbe Memorial Museum, Oura Cathedral, and St. Maximilian’s first residence in Nagasaki, before returning to our hotel for dinner and a restful night filled with memories.

After breakfast, we’ll take a motor coach to Hirado to visit the St. Francis Xavier Memorial Church and Tabira Church. We’ll admire the unique craftsmanship using seashells turned to stone and learn about the 1873 moment when the ban on Christianity was lifted, allowing hidden Christians to rebuild their worship places, with Tabira symbolizing resilience and faith. In the afternoon, we’ll take in the stunning views of Nagasaki and the Sea of Japan from Mt. Inasa. Afterward, we’ll head back to our hotel for dinner and a restful night.

Today, we honor the sacrifice of the 33 Christians at the Unzen Hot Springs martyrdom site, reflecting on their courageous stand for faith amidst persecution. We’ll then attend a meaningful Mass at Shimabara Catholic Church and explore the Hara Castle site of the Shimabara Rebellion, where local Christian farmers bravely revolted against unjust governance. Finally, we’ll enjoy dinner and overnight accommodations at our hotel in Nagasaki.

We’ll start our day with a ferry ride to Goto Island to visit Dozaki Catholic Church, the first established after the ban on Christianity. Next, we’ll head to Christian’s Cave on Wakamatsu Island, a refuge for persecuted Christians. If time allows, we’ll also visit Imochiura Church, Japan’s first Lourdes Grotto, as well as the Memorial Church and the Monument to Martyrdom at Ryoyonasako Jail. After a day of exploring, we’ll enjoy dinner and return to our hotel in Nagasaki.

Our journey continues with a visit to Nyoko-do and the inspiring Dr. Takashi Memorial Museum. Dr. Takashi, a survivor of the Nagasaki atomic bombing, was known as the “Saint of Urakami” for his life of prayer and service. We’ll also explore the Urakami Cathedral, the Nagasaki Hypocenter Park, and the Atomic Bomb Museum, reflecting on resilience and hope. In the afternoon, we’ll take the Kamome Express train to Fukuoka Station and transfer to the Bullet Train to Hiroshima, where we anticipate an uplifting dinner and restful accommodations, looking forward to the next leg of our pilgrimage.

We’re excited to start our day with a heartfelt Mass at the Assumption of Mary Cathedral, known as the Memorial Cathedral of World Peace. After the service, we’ll visit Peace Memorial Park to honor the victims of the atomic bomb, exploring the A-Bomb Museum and the iconic A-Bomb Dome. We’ll also see Hiroshima Castle, which shares the city’s history before World War II. As the day ends, we’ll board the Bullet Train to Kyoto for dinner and a restful night at our hotel.

After breakfast, we’ll head to Kawaramachi Church for a meaningful Mass at Our Lady of Miyako Chapel, honoring the 52 Kyoto Martyrs. Then, we’ll explore the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo creates a magical atmosphere. Our adventure continues at Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site from the 17th century, showcasing beautifully preserved architecture. After a day of wonder, we’ll enjoy a delightful dinner and relax for the night in Kyoto.

After breakfast, we’ll take the Bullet Train to Tokyo’s Shinagawa Station. If the weather permits, we can admire stunning views of Mount Fuji along the way. Upon arrival, we’ll have Mass at Takanawa Catholic Church, honoring the Great Martyrdom of Tokyo. The afternoon is yours to explore, shop, or relax. Dinner will be at our hotel, featuring warm hospitality.

This morning starts with breakfast before a leisurely day in Tokyo! Our tour manager will recommend must-see sights and cozy cafes. We’ll gather for Mass at Takanawa Catholic Church before returning to the hotel for dinner and a restful night.

Today, we’ll take the Bullet Train to Akita. Upon arrival, we will visit the Chapel of Our Lady of Akita, where we’ll attend Mass in front of the miraculous ‘Our Lady of all Nations’ statue, known for shedding tears from 1975 to 1981. After this enriching experience, we’ll enjoy dinner and relax at our hotel.

We return to Seitai Hoshikai for Mass and a special consecration ceremony for the Miraculous Medal. After praying the Outdoor Stations and sharing a Holy Hour, we’ll have lunch followed by options to reflect at the church or explore Kakunodate’s Samurai District and the Aoyagi Samurai Manor. We’ll end the day with dinner and settle in at our hotel in Akita.

We gather at Seitai Hoshikai for a heartfelt final Mass of thanksgiving, filled with gratitude and joy. Then, we transfer to Akita airport, ready to take home unforgettable experiences.