Islam finds growing harmony in Japanese society

In culturally homogenous Japan, a quietly growing Muslim community is reshaping perceptions and forging harmony between Islamic values and Japanese culture. Once dominated by pork- and alcohol-based cuisine, cities like Sapporo now host halal restaurants such as Horyu Ramen, offering traditional dishes with halal alternatives. In Osaka, multicultural food stalls and award-winning eateries like Ali’s Kitchen highlight the diversity and warmth of Islamic hospitality.

Kobe’s historic mosque, built in 1935 and dubbed the “miracle building” for surviving both WWII bombings and a 1995 earthquake, stands as a powerful symbol of Islamic presence. It is led by Sheikh Yusuke Fujitani, a Japanese convert who emphasizes shared spiritual values between Islam and local traditions.

Even in Okinawa, a small mosque maintained by local Muslims reflects community solidarity, rooted in the island’s moai culture of mutual support. With over 110 mosques across the country, Islam is now Japan’s fastest-growing religion, according to The Economist.