Understanding Muslim Communities In Central Japan: A Comparative Perspective

Abstract

Perceptions of integration can significantly vary among different nationalities, particularly within Japan’s growing Muslim communities. While the Filipino non-Muslim community has established a relatively strong presence in Japan, Muslims from Indonesia surpass them in population size. However, both communities actively engage through civic associations and social networks, contributing to a smoother integration into Japanese society. These associations facilitate local activities, foster camaraderie, and promote disaster preparedness, intercultural events, and participation in local festivals. In this study, an ethnographic approach was employed, using participant observation and short-focus interviews in Central Japan from January to May 2024. The aim was to explore the challenges faced by Muslim minorities as they strive to coexist harmoniously with the Japanese community in their respective localities. This includes close collaboration with semi-government and para-state organizations, reflecting McVeigh’s concept of the “bureaucratic blurring of state and society” (1998).