Ramadan in Japan: Diversity in the Warmth of Faith

By, Muhammad Nur Fadhil, Student of STAI Al Fatah, Cileungsi

Ramadan has always been a meaningful month for Muslims around the world, including those living in countries with a minority Muslim population, such as Japan. Although there are not as many Muslims as in Muslim-majority countries, the atmosphere of Ramadan is still warm with various worship activities and the growing togetherness of the Muslim community.

In Japan, the number of Muslims is estimated to reach hundreds of thousands, consisting of immigrants and locals who have converted to Islam. With such a small number compared to the overall population, Muslims in Japan face their own challenges when it comes to fasting. However, the spirit of Ramadan remains strong thanks to mosques, Islamic communities, and solidarity among Muslims.

As the holy month approaches, several large mosques in Japan, such as the Tokyo Camii Mosque, Kobe Mosque, and Nagoya Mosque, begin to prepare for Ramadan. These mosques become the centre of Islamic activities for Muslims in Japan, especially during the fasting month. The typical atmosphere of Ramadan starts to be felt with various preparations, such as providing imsakiyah schedules, collecting donations for breaking the fast together, and increasing the number of Islamic studies.

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When Ramadan arrives, the main challenge for Muslims in Japan is adjusting fasting to daily routines. As Japan is not an Islamic country, there is no change in working hours or school schedules. Muslims there still have to carry out activities as usual, even though they are fasting. In some major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, fasting times can be quite long, depending on the season. If Ramadan falls in the summer, the longer daylight hours mean the fast can last up to around 16 hours.

Despite this, the Muslim community still tries to create a distinctive Ramadan atmosphere. One of the most anticipated moments is breaking the fast together at mosques or Islamic community centres. Various specialities from different countries are served on the iftar table, reflecting the diversity of Muslims living in Japan. Muslims from Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkey, Malaysia and other countries gather together, sharing food and stories about their fasting experiences in a non-Muslim country.

Apart from mosques, some halal restaurants in Japan also organise special iftar menus. Halal grocery stores have also started stocking more dates and other Ramadan specialities. The existence of a growing Muslim community also facilitates access to halal food, although it is still much more limited than in Muslim countries.

Tarawih prayer is one of the most anticipated moments. Mosques in Japan usually hold Tarawih prayers in congregation, and this is an opportunity for Muslims to feel a sense of togetherness amidst their busy schedules. Some mosques even bring in imams from overseas to lead the prayers and recite the Qur’an with melodious recitations.

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Although Ramadan in Japan is full of challenges, Muslims there still carry it out with full sincerity. Challenges such as neighbourhoods that do not participate in fasting, the lack of religious holidays, and the difficulty of obtaining halal food do not dampen their enthusiasm for worship. In fact, many Japanese are interested in and respectful of the fasting practices of their Muslim friends or co-workers. Some companies have also started to be more flexible by giving Muslim employees longer breaks when breaking the fast.

As Ramadan comes to an end, the atmosphere becomes more festive with preparations for Eid al-Fitr. Many Muslim communities organise Eid prayers in mosques or open spaces, followed by gathering and eating together. For those who are away from their families, this moment is a precious time to feel togetherness and warmth in the overseas land.

Despite being in a country with a minority Muslim population, Ramadan in Japan still makes a deep impression on Muslims there. With the spirit of togetherness, solidarity, and faith, they can still worship with full solemnity. The growing presence of Islam in Japan also brings hope that in the future, the atmosphere of Ramadan in this country will be more vibrant and meaningful. []