Karuizawa has many churches. While not locating in the town center, Uchimura Kanzō Memorial Stone Church in Karuizawa Hoshino Area is the one you have to visit, even if you don’t believe in god. The church is just like an artwork. Whether you understand architecture or not, the building will manage to amaze you.
About Uchimura Kanzō Memorial Stone Church (石の教会 内村鑑三記念堂)
Uchimura Kanzō Memorial Stone Church in the Karuizawa Hoshino Area was built to celebrate the achievements of Uchimura Kanzō, a Christian evangelist in the late 19th to early 20th century. This artistic architecture that blends in well with the nature of Karuizawa is one of the main landmarks in the town. The stone church’s design incorporates all of the five major elements of the creation of the world that appear in the Old Testament: earth, fire, sky, water, and air.
Unlike the traditional Gothic-style church, it is hard to realize that you are proceeding towards a church while walking on its approach with several arches in the direction that matches the sun’s orbit. In fact, the architecture is created by arches with glass filling in the space between the curved symmetrical structure. This allows natural light to shine through the glass wall to lighten the interior.
Surrounding by the forest and with water flowing through the nave, the stone church has all the essential elements required for life creation!
Inside Uchimura Kanzō Memorial Stone Church
Another thing worth mentioning about the stone and glass used to construct the artistic building is what the material represents. The stone represents a man, and the glass represents a woman. Together, they express how life can be created, as well as the concept of marriage.
Whilst different from the traditional church stereotype, the stone church’s ambience is solemn, perfect for worshipping and praying. Even if you don’t believe in God, the sound of the flowing water and refreshing greenery will surely make you feel calm and refreshed.
If you are interested in examining this stunning architecture, it is open to the public from Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 5 pm as long as no wedding is held.
The Best Photography Spot at Uchimura Kanzō Memorial Stone Church
Because photography isn’t allowed inside Uchimura Kanzō Memorial Stone Church unless you visit for a wedding, you can only engrave the church’s elegant interior design in your mind. But there is another spot on the church’s grounds that is worth taking photos at!
Where? The stonewall-lined passageway on the second part of the visitor route after exiting the church from the backdoor. The backdoor is at the basement level of the church. So, remember to head down the stairs after you have your fill of the church’s unique vibe.
Uchimura Kanzō Memorial Stone Church’s Opening Hours and Access Information
- Uchimura Kanzō Memorial Stone Church is open from 10 am to 5 pm from mid-April to late November.
- Note that the church will be closed to the public if a wedding ceremony is held that day.
- The church is around a 10-minute walk from HARUNIRE Terrace.
Discover Other Attractions in Karuizawa Hoshino Area
As you might have guessed already, Uchimura Kanzō Memorial Stone Church isn’t the only tourist spot in the Karuizawa Hoshino Area. You would want to check out a couple more attractions close to the terrace, including unique churches and hot spring facilities. If you want to escape from the crowd, there is also a cafe in the forest with a lakefront view where you can ice skate in the winter!
For more information, refer to our article on Karuizawa Hoshino Area!
