Nagano / Saint Paul's Catholic Church
Saint Paul's Catholic Church was established in Karuizawa in 1935 by the British priest Father L. Ward. The church is one of the historic buildings in Karuizawa designed by the architect Antonin Raymond, who received awards from the American Institute of Architects.
It features a triangle-shaped steep pitch roof, big steeple and as-cast concrete.
Father Carlos Martinez has held the office of priest chief since 1961 for a half century.
Passing through Church Street from Ginza Street of Kyu-karuizawa, the church lies straight ahead. The church blends harmoniously with the surrounding beauty of nature in all seasons and attracts many visitors every year.
| Location | 179 Karuizawa Karuizawamachi Kitasaku-gun Nagano Prefecture Google Maps |
| Tour application / Contact information | +81-267-42-2429 |
| Open hours | 7:00am-6:00pm (up to sunset in the winter season) Note: entry not possible during worship or wedding ceremonies |
| Admission fee | Free |
| Mass information | Catholics:9:00am on Sundays, 6:00pm on Saturdays
Non-Catholics:11:00am from Monday to Friday
English available |
| Chief priest | Father Takano |
| Access | Take the Kusakaru Kotsu Bus towards Kitakaruizawa at JR Karuizawa Station or Seibu Kogen Bus towards Kusatsu (5 minutes ride), get off at Kyu-karuizawa and walk for 6 minutes. |
| Note | Brochures in English available |
| Further information | Click here |
Saint Paul's Church is also famous for its beautiful historic building.
The church was designed by the architect Antonin Raymond who was awarded by the American Institute of Architects. As one of historic buildings in Karuizawa, its beautiful appearance stands out even more in the verdant summer seasons. The church is always full of visitors who take pictures or make sketches.
Saint Paul's Church in summer
This St. Paul's Church, also called St. Paul's Catholic Church, is a unique Catholic church in Karuizawa.
Saint Paul's Church Lighting Up
In winter, Karuizawa town is lit up. In particular, every church is illuminated at night and visitors can enjoy their appearance of enhanced beauty.
Saint Paul's Church in winter
It's very cold in the winter morning and evening in Karuizawa, so star dusts always please visitors in this season. You can further concentrate on your prayers in the quiet atmosphere of the snow-covered church.
