Annaka: Walking Routes, Church History and Architecture

Annaka brings together several clearly defined historical themes: two walking tours in the joint program “襄・城ヒストリート,” the history of Annaka Church, biographical records relating to Niijima Jō, and the Megane Bridge. The range spans a walking tour program, church history, memorial items and brick arch construction. Annaka therefore offers travelers several ways to get to know a place through specific stories.

Two walking tours, two historical points of reference

In Annaka, the walking tours “新島襄ヒストリート” and “安中城址ヒストリート” were established under the joint name “襄・城ヒストリート.” Their titles draw attention to two different themes: Niijima Jō on the one hand, and the site of Annaka Castle on the other. Both walking tours belong to the same program, but they do not represent the same theme. When planning your trip, you can therefore consider which of these two historical points of reference interests you more: the history associated with Niijima Jō or the castle site.

The history of Annaka Church

Annaka Church was founded on March 31, 1878, after Niijima Jō baptized 30 people, including Jirō Yuasa. It was the first Protestant church in Japan founded by Japanese people and also the first in Gunma Prefecture. These two descriptions show its significance on two different levels: nationwide and within the prefecture. A later chapter is the Niijima Jō Memorial Chapel, built in 1919. It has served as a place of worship for more than 100 years. The founding date and the construction of the chapel are thus two distinct points in the church’s history.

Biographical records in the community

Another biographical point of interest in the Annaka community is the former residence of Niijima Jō. Personal belongings, related documents and photographs are displayed there. These different forms—objects, written records and images—complement the biographical perspective on Niijima Jō. Alongside the name of the walking route, there is also a tangible collection of memorial items, documents and photographs.

The Megane Bridge: design and scale

The Megane Bridge, completed in 1892, is also located in the Annaka community. It is a brick arch bridge and is among the largest of its kind in Japan. It is 31 meters high, measured from the riverbed. Its design, comparison of size and measurement reference give the structure a precise profile: the bridge can be classified as a brick arch structure, while the height figure describes its size using a clear reference point. In chronological terms, its completion in 1892 falls between the founding of Annaka Church in 1878 and the construction of the memorial chapel in 1919.

If you are looking for a vacation rental in Annaka, your areas of interest can serve as a starting point for planning your trip. Consider whether you are most interested in the walking routes, church history or a particular structure. This will help you decide which themes you want to shape your stay before choosing a specific place to stay.

Discover more destinations: Tone District, Shibukawa, Minakami, Ueno, Kawawa, Maebashi, Numata, Tomioka.

For the overview of the wider region: Gunma Prefecture.