JAPAN

Halal-friendly holidays

Japan is not a Muslim-majority country, but it is becoming increasingly Muslim-friendly. Over the past decade, more restaurants serving halal food, prayer facilities and signage in English and Arabic have been introduced, especially in major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Airports and popular tourist sites often provide prayer rooms, and the local culture is known for its politeness and hospitality.

Halal food is becoming more widely available in Japan, particularly in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Restaurants serving halal-Japanese dishes such as ramen, sushi and yakiniku are growing in number. Visitors will also find halal-friendly Turkish, Indian and Malaysian restaurants. Vegetarian options like vegetable tempura, soba noodles and tofu-based dishes are common. Traditional sweets such as mochi (rice cakes) and dorayaki (red bean pancakes) are also popular.

Several hotels in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka offer halal-friendly services, including halal meals and alcohol-free rooms on request. In Hokkaido, some ski resorts cater to Muslim travellers with prayer facilities and halal dining options. Self-catering apartments are also popular, giving travellers flexibility with halal food preparation.

• Tokyo – The capital city, offering modern skyscrapers, shopping districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku, and cultural sites such as Senso-ji Temple and Meiji Shrine.
• Kyoto – Known for its historic temples, traditional tea houses, bamboo groves and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Osaka – Famous for its street food, Osaka Castle and Universal Studios Japan.
• Mount Fuji – Japan’s iconic peak and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, popular for hiking and scenic views.
• Nara – Ancient capital with Todai-ji Temple, the Great Buddha and friendly deer roaming the parks.
• Hokkaido – Northern island with beautiful winter landscapes, ski resorts and hot springs.
• Okinawa – Subtropical islands with white sand beaches and a unique cultural heritage.

Yes, Japan has more than 100 mosques. Notable ones include the Tokyo Camii Mosque, the largest in the country, the Kobe Mosque (the first mosque built in Japan in 1935), and the Osaka Ibaraki Mosque. Many universities also provide prayer facilities for Muslim students and visitors.