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In 1973, in the quiet town of Akita, Japan, Sister Agnes Katsuko Sasagawa, though completely deaf, miraculously heard a voice of indescribable beauty as the wooden statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary radiated a brilliant light and came to life. Through this statue, the Blessed Mother entrusted Sr. Agnes with three messages—echoing the call of Fatima—for prayer, repentance, and sacrifice. You are invited to join a 7-day Journey of Souls and Senses Pilgrimage to Tokyo and Akita with a PilgrimageChaplain on November 19-25, 2025, may this spiritual encounter lead you to a place of deep peace and quiet grace—a true oasis for the soul.
Begin your pilgrimage with a Mass at Takanawa Church, also known as Our Lady of Queen of Martyrs. Nestled in a quiet corner of Tokyo, this sacred place stands near Fudanotsuji – the historic site where many early Japanese Christians were martyred during the Edo period. The church was founded in 1948 by the Scarboro Foreign Mission Society, and its original wooden chapel—completed in 1959—reflected a traditional Japanese architectural style. Next is a visit to Tsukiji Catholic Church, also known as the Old Cathedral of St. Joseph—the first Catholic Church established in Tokyo. Delight in a half-day city tour featuring a visit to the elegant Ginza Shopping District, a photo stop at the historic Imperial Palace andits serene East Gardens, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Tokyo skyline from the Tokyo TowerObservatory.
Visit St. Mary’s Cathedral, the seat of Tokyo’s Roman Catholic Archdiocese and an architectural landmark designed by world-renowned architect Kenzo Tange. Completed in 1964 with support from the Archdiocese of Cologne, Germany, the cathedral features soaring curved walls that, when viewed from above, form the shape of a cross. Inside, the vast column-free space rises to nearly 40 meters, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere. It houses a bust of St. Francis Xavier and relics of Pope John Paul II—gifts from Cologne—and is home to the largest pipe organ in any church in Japan.
Head for Ueno Park, a scenic park known for its world-class museums, cherry trees, and cultural landmarks. Then, make your way to Asakusa Nakamise Street, a bustling traditional shopping street filled with local treats and crafts, leading to the famous Senso-ji Temple. Marvel at sweeping views of the city skyline on your visit to Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest tower.
Celebrate Mass at Kojimachi Catholic Church, also known as St. Ignatius Church, named after the founder of the Jesuits. Christianity was first brought to Japan in 1549 by St. Francis Xavier, a Jesuit missionary sent by St. Ignatius himself. Not to be missed is a chance to experience the legendary Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian intersection and an enduring symbol of Tokyo’s dynamic pulse, where hundreds cross from all directions in a captivating display of motion and modernity.
Wind down your pilgrimage with a two-night stay at the Convent of the Servants of the Holy Eucharist (Seitai Hoshikai), serenely perched on a hill overlooking the quiet outskirts of Akita. This sacred place is home to the miraculous image of Our Lady of Akita, where in 1973, Sr. Agnes Katsuko Sasagawa experienced extraordinary visions of the Blessed Mother, received the stigmata, and witnessed a wooden statue of Mary weep 101 times over six years. In 1982, during Mass at the convent, Sr. Agnes was also miraculously healed of her deafness. Celebrate Mass and spend quiet moments in prayer and reflection in one of the most tranquil and spiritually moving places on earth.
As the year draws to a close, take time to nourish your soul on a 7-day Journey of Souls and Senses Pilgrimage to Tokyo and Akita with a Pilgrimage Chaplain, from November 19–25, 2025. Step away from the noise of daily life and be renewed in body, mind, and spirit. May Our Lady of Akita usher you ever closer to the heart of Jesus.
