Constructed in 1932, the Catholic Matsugamine Church is the oldest and largest surviving building made of Ohya-ishi (Ohya Stone). The designer was Swiss architect Max Hinder who lived in Japan for 16 years. He was also designed Sophia University and St. Mary Hospital in Tokyo. This church looks soft and elegant. A frog decoration near the tower works as a drainage spout when it rains. During typhoons, rainwater flows out from a mouth of the frog as if it were a waterfall. The inside of the church is even more beautiful. The pillars and inner sanctuary are finished with Ohya Stone, creating a full, warm feeling.
- 1 min read
Utsunomiya’s Matsugamine Church
A beautiful place of worship constructed in 1932
Join the discussion
Thank you bonbon and Mary. When I visited this church, I was touched and moved by its beauty and (perhaps) integrity.
Mary Kawai
12 years ago
How beautiful! Thank you for telling us about this place.
Bonson Lam
12 years ago
Wow! This looks like the South of France in the Japanese Countryside!
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