Osaka-Takamatsu Cathedral St. Mary's Cathedral — Attraction in Osaka

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, commonly known as Osaka Cathedral St. Mary's, is a prominent Roman Catholic church located in the Tamatsukuri area of Osaka. Serving as the seat of the Archdiocese of Osaka-Takamatsu, it holds significant historical and architectural value.

Historical Background

Originally constructed in 1894 as the Cathedral of St. Agnes, the church was destroyed during World War II air raids. In 1949, it was reestablished as St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. The current structure, completed in 1963, was renamed St. Mary's Cathedral.

Architectural Features

The cathedral boasts a distinctive blue-tiled façade adorned with a white stone statue of the Virgin Mary. Its spacious interior features beautiful stained glass windows and murals by artist Insho Domoto.

Visiting Information

Masses are held daily, with services in Japanese, English, Vietnamese, and Korean at various times. Non-Catholics are welcome to attend. The cathedral is approximately a 10-minute walk from Osaka Castle Park, making it accessible for visitors exploring the area.

For more details, including mass schedules and events, please visit the...

Beautiful stained glass and a very peaceful atmosphere. We attended the Japanese Mass as a family a few times, and while I enjoyed the liturgy, the experience with churchgoers was disappointing. Even when my then 1-year-old only babbled (not crying), we were told to go to the cry room, once even with the comment “noisy kids go to the cry room.” Like, I don’t think Jesus would say that. Of course, I would step out if he cried or screamed, which he never did, but it felt unwelcoming, so we stopped going back. I understand it’s mostly older people, and when I went to the cry room all the babies/toddlers were there, but I still wish the church was open to everyone including children. I never experienced anything like this in other churches, which is too bad because the Mass and the church itself were...

nice and airconditioned during eucharistic celebrations or mass. when there are no mass, church is solemnly quiet and cool - a perfect place to be with God and just talk or pray to him. do visit the place and pray. BUT be aware that church people are pushy and force you to sit. i prefer to stand at the back. the church people will tell you that is is not allowed but eventually will notice there are people standing after mass. for me, it meant asking church goers to better be late. i may stop going because of these...