It seemed to hold the traces of time just as they are. It was an old church, but for me as a believer it was special. Even though it was a weekday the door was open, so I looked around and prayed, and an elderly priest came out and we talked about this and that. The hill was high and tough for a side trip while visiting the Otaru Canal, but I'm glad I went.

It was first built in Meiji 28 (1895), but after burning down it was rebuilt at its current location, halfway up the Suitengu hill overlooking the town of Otaru. Its features are a bell tower atop a gabled roof, lace decorations on the eaves, a star-patterned rose window, and wide pointed-arch windows

2025.02 While heavy snow was falling, I walked along the snow-covered omotesando approach, wanting to go up and see Suitengu. Right by the road I saw this church, one with quite a historic feel. After walking in, it seemed like no one was there, so I didn't dare to intrude and just took some photos outside!

Designated a historic building of Otaru City. Built in 1907 (Meiji 40). A small, charming wooden church in the residential area past the Suitengu torii gate. Seikokai is the Japanese name of the church tied to the tradition of the Church of England, born in the 16th century; though Protestant, it carries on Catholic elements and is called a "bridge church". Mrs. Rita, wife of Masataka Taketsuru, the father of Japanese whisky known as "Massan", was a member of this church.

It's on the approach to Suitengu. It's a small building but feels like a church with history. It's a historic building of Otaru City.