Japan
November 13, 2026 Nagasaki Explored This morning we had a walking tour of Nagasaki followed by a free afternoon. One of the canals. The Oura Cathedral (officially the Basilica of the Twenty-Six Holy Martyrs of Japan). The cathedral was built in 1865 by French missionaries to honour the memory of the twenty-six martyrs. In 1597 the ruler of Japan outlawed Christianity and set an example by executing 26 people. At this time foreigners were no longer welcome in Japan. The Dutch West Indies company managed to get a foothold in trading with Japan as they proclaimed that they did not have a religious affiliation. Interesting building The next stop was the Glover Garden. They had moving sidewalks to help you reach the highest point in the garden. You followed a winding path down, past old residences and gardens. Some pigeons were enjoying this pond. They kept one eye out for the carp. Some of the beautiful gardens and a panoramic view of the Nagasaki Harbour....