Explore Annaka through two named walking tours and several historical themes. The routes are part of the joint program “襄・城ヒストリート”: one is called “新島襄ヒストリート” and the other “安中城址ヒストリート.” Other points of interest include the history of Annaka Church, the former residence of Niijima Jō, and Megane Bridge. This gives you a choice of different focuses—from a themed walk to church and architectural history. When planning, it’s worth deciding first whether you’d prefer one of the walking routes or to take a closer look at individual historical themes.

Two walking routes with different points of reference

The shared program name brings the two walking tours together, but their individual names point to different historical subjects. “新島襄ヒストリート” puts Niijima Jō at the center of its name; “安中城址ヒストリート” refers to the site of Annaka Castle. These titles can help you choose a route based on your interests: one takes Niijima Jō as its thematic starting point, while the other focuses on the history of the castle site. They are two named walking routes within a shared program. If you’re looking for a walking-based perspective, you can use their names to decide whether you’re more interested in a person’s history or a historic place.

Church history with two historic firsts

Annaka Church offers a clear historical point of reference. It was founded on March 31, 1878, after Niijima Jō baptized 30 people, including Jirō Yuasa. The church is associated with two firsts: it was the first Protestant church in Japan founded by Japanese people, and also the first in Gunma Prefecture. These claims refer to different geographical levels—Japan as a country and Gunma as a prefecture. The Niijima Jō Memorial Chapel is also part of the story: it was built in 1919 and has served as a place of worship for over 100 years. To place the dates in context, it’s important to distinguish the church’s founding year from the chapel’s construction year: the chapel came later in this history.

Personal mementos and architectural history

Another connection to Niijima Jō is his former residence in the associated community. Personal belongings, related documents, and photographs are on display there. The exhibition offers a personal perspective alongside the institutional history of Annaka Church. If you’re planning a visit, check access arrangements in advance.

Megane Bridge, in the associated community, offers an architectural perspective. Completed in 1892, it is a brick arch bridge and one of the largest of its kind in Japan. It is 31 meters high, measured from the riverbed. This measurement basis makes the figure clear: it describes the bridge’s height, not its length. The construction year, design, comparison with other bridges in Japan, and height provide different information about the same bridge. If you’re interested in structures, you can consider Megane Bridge from a different angle than the church: here the focus is on design and dimensions, while the church is about its founding and religious history.

Discover more destinations: Takasaki, Tsunago, Tone District, Tomioka, Shibukawa, Fujioka, Ueno, Kiryū

For the broader travel overview: Gunma Prefecture.