TSU -- The roof of a Western-style church near the Ise Jingu shinto shrine in Mie Prefecture is adorned with "onigawara" ridge-end tiles, which often have a gargoyle relief, but with a cross motif instead.

Located in a residential area in the city of Tsu close to the Akogiura coast -- once a fishing ground for dedicating seafood to Ise Jingu shrine -- stands the chapel of the Akogi Church, which belongs to the United Church of Christ in Japan. From the outside it is a mostly white, Western-style wooden building, yet it features traditional Japanese elements such as the ridge-end tiles, showcasing a blend of Japanese and Western styles. When entering the chapel, visitors are required to take off their shoes, adhering to Japanese custom.

The church's history dates back to 1909, when American missionary Alexander Hail began his evangelism in the city. During his visit to Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, to get relief from the summer heat, he lost his son due to an eruption of Mount Asama. This tragic event spurred the construction of the chapel and other facilities in 1912.

The chapel's construction was based on designs brought to Japan by architect William Merrell Vories, known for his work in religious architecture. The structure is designed with an upper space that allows the ceiling panels to resonate, enhancing acoustics.

During World War II, the church was requisitioned by the then Imperial Japanese Navy. Despite suffering intense air raids, it was spared from destruction due to military firefighting efforts. As the only church that survived in the city, it continues to convey its over 100-year history to the present day.

(Japanese original by Kazuki Yamazaki, Nagoya Photo and Video Department)

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The Japanese version of this article was originally published on March 16, 2025.

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