When traveling through Urawa in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, you can visit the historic Cathedral of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, also known locally as the Urawa Church.
Serving as an active parish of the Roman Catholic Church, this notable spiritual destination holds a significant place in regional religious history as the official seat of the bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saitama. Founded in 1940, the church is dedicated to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, a celebrated French Discalced Carmelite who was canonized in 1925 and later proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in 1997 by Pope John Paul II.
As you explore, you will appreciate its rich ecclesiastical background; the site was elevated to official cathedral status in 1957 upon the formal creation of the Diocese of Saitama through the historical papal bull "Qui superna Dei" issued by Pope Pius XII. Whether you are interested in Catholic heritage, religious administrative history, or sacred Japanese sites dedicated to Saint Thérèse, spending time at this cathedral offers you a quiet connection to Saitama's diocesan heart and its foundational mid-twentieth-century Roman Catholic roots.
What to see at St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Cathedral, Urawa
- Official seat of the bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saitama
- Founded in 1940 and also known as Urawa Church
- Dedicated to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, a French Discalced Carmelite
- Elevated to cathedral status in 1957 via papal bull by Pope Pius XII
Visiting tips
Take time during your visit to reflect on the historical significance of this 1940 seat of the Diocese of Saitama.
How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Cathedral, Urawa is easy to reach on Saitama’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Saitama travel guide.
See the full Saitama travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.