Japan’s Muslim-Friendly Tourism: What Travelers Need To Know.
Introduction
Japan is a fascinating destination for travellers who want to experience a rich and diverse culture, stunning natural scenery, and delicious cuisine. But for Muslim travellers, Japan may seem like a challenging place to visit, especially when it comes to finding halal food and prayer facilities.
In this article, we’ll delve into the best attractions and prefectures in the Kansai region, while also addressing the needs of Muslim travellers.
Friendly Q&A type content
Is it easy to find Muslim friendly food in Japan?
How can I find Muslim friendly restaurants and shops in Japan?
What are some of the best Muslim friendly restaurants in Japan?
Are there any Muslim friendly hotels or ryokans in Japan?
Are there any signboards or street signs that indicates prayer rooms or mosques around popular areas or prefectures?
Are there any Muslim friendly prefectures in Japan?
Visiting Shizuoka
Visiting Hokkaido
Visiting Hyogo
Visiting Gifu
Visiting Okayama
Q: Is it easy to find Muslim friendly food in Japan?
A: Finding Muslim friendly food in Japan used to be quite difficult, as pork and
alcohol
are
widely used in Japanese cooking. However, in recent years, Japan has seen a surge in Muslim friendly
restaurants
and
shops, especially in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Fukuoka. These restaurants offer a
variety of
cuisines from Japanese to Turkish, Indian, Indonesian, Malaysian and more.
Q: How can I find Muslim friendly restaurants and shops in Japan?
A: There are several ways to find Muslim friendly restaurants and shops in Japan.
One of the
easiest ways is to use online platforms and apps that list and review Muslim friendly eateries and
stores across
the
country. There are a few websites where you can refer to such as JNTO Muslim Travelers’ Guide, Halal
Gourmet
Japan,
Halal Navi, Halal Media Japan and Halal Trip. You can also check out travel websites such as Trip.com
and
TripAdvisor.com for some tips.
authentic
food.
Here are a few known Muslim friendly restaurants we can recommend:
Halal Ramen Honolu: This is a Muslim friendly
ramen shop that serves noodles made from halal ingredients. Honolu has
branches in Tokyo (Shinjuku), Kyoto (Gion) and Osaka (Namba) and Aichi(Nagoya).
Sushiken Asakusa: Sushiken Asakusa is a
popular muslim friendly sushi restaurant in Tokyo, just a short walk from
Kaminarimon gate. It is a favourite among Muslim tourists who want to
experience authentic Japanese sushi. The restaurant also serves other
Japanese dishes, such as tempura and sushi platters.
Kobe Beef Steak Sakura: Enjoy
Halal-certified Wagyu beef at the counter, where the chef grills it in front
of you. Teppan and tableware are specially designed for this purpose.
Walk-in service is also available, depending on availability on the day.
Japanese Food Restaurant Matsuri: Matsuri is
a Muslim-friendly Japanese restaurant located in Osaka, Japan. The
restaurant has a wide variety of halal-certified dishes on the menu,
including sushi, sashimi, tempura, ramen, and okonomiyaki. The restaurant
also has a prayer space and a wudu facility for Muslim guests.
Q: Are there any Muslim friendly hotels or ryokans in Japan?
A: Yes, there are some hotels and ryokans that offer Muslim friendly
services or facilities for Muslim guests. These include providing Muslim
friendly food options, prayer mats and qibla directions, mosque information,
and alcohol-free rooms.
Some of them also have separate bathing areas for men and women, or private
onsen (hot spring) baths that you can reserve. Some of the Muslim friendly
hotels and ryokans in Japan are:
Hotel Granvia Kyoto: This is a luxury
hotel that is located next to Kyoto Station and offers easy access to many
tourist attractions. The hotel has a halal-certified restaurant called
Shinsei, which serves Japanese and Western cuisine. The hotel also
provides prayer mats and qibla directions, mosque information and
alcohol-free rooms upon request.
Risshisha Machiya Hotels: Risshisha
Machiya Hotels offer feature refined wooden furnishings and embrace the
timeless essence of traditional Japanese design, complemented by
contemporary elements. Diversifying their amenities, the hotel chain has
seamlessly incorporated Muslim-friendly services into their offerings.
Within each ryokan room, guests will find thoughtfully provided prayer
mats, clear Qibla markings, a reliable Qibla compass, prayer attire, and
specialized tableware catering to the needs of Muslim patrons.
Sato-Yu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso: Yuzanso
actively participates in Japan’s Muslim-friendly travel initiative by
featuring a comprehensive Halal menu, meticulously curated to exclude any
non-Halal components. Notably, guests can indulge in a substantial
breakfast buffet offering an extensive array of dishes. During the winter
season, Yuzanso presents a distinctive Japanese-style crab cuisine
experience.
These make up just some of the many restaurants and hotels that are
Muslim-friendly in Japan, so that you can have a pleasant and comfortable
stay.
Click the area of your choice on the map at the link below, to browse even
more options:
Q: Are there any signboards or street signs that indicates prayer
rooms or mosques around popular areas or prefectures?
A: While it’s not as common to find specific signboards or street signs indicating
prayer rooms or mosques in popular areas or prefectures, there are efforts to accommodate the needs
of Muslim residents and visitors. Japan is known for its hospitality and respect for diverse cultures
and religions.
In areas with a significant Muslim population or popular tourist destinations, you may come across some
signage or information that can help you locate prayer facilities. For instance, in cities like Tokyo,
Osaka, Kyoto or other areas with a higher concentration of Muslim residents or tourists, you might find
mosques or
prayer rooms within shopping centres, airports or hotels that cater to international visitors. These
establishments often make efforts to provide a convenient space for prayer.
To make your experience more seamless, it’s advisable to do some prior
research or reach out to local Muslim communities or organizations. They can provide valuable
insights and guidance on the most convenient prayer facilities in your intended area of visit.
Q: Are there any Muslim friendly prefectures in Japan?
A: Absolutely! Japan has been making strides in becoming more Muslim-friendly to
cater to the needs of Muslim travelers. Here are some prefectures that have been putting in extra effort
to provide you peace of mind during your stay.
Shizuoka
Shizuoka is a picturesque prefecture located in the Chubu region of Japan, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. It is home to the iconic Mount Fuji, which attracts tourists from around the world. Shizuoka is also known for having several other tourist attractions such as Fuji Safari Park, Shiraito Falls, Atami, Izu Highland, Shimoda, Dogashima, and Sumatakyo Gorge.
If you like drinking green tea, Shizuoka is also renowned for its green tea plantations. They harvest and ship more green tea than anywhere else in the country and they offer some unique matcha experience for tourists to enjoy.
Being a Muslim-friendly prefecture, Shizuoka boasts a growing number of restaurants and cafes that serve muslim-friendly cuisines to ensure that Muslim visitors can indulge on some authentic Japanese flavours without compromising their beliefs.
The prefecture also has its own website for Muslims called “Halal Portal”. They also offer matcha experiences for Muslims.
Shizuoka is a promising destination for those seeking a Muslim-friendly travel experience in Japan. If you are experiencing Japan for the first time, do start your journey at Shizuoka.
Hokkaido
Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, is a captivating destination renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, vibrant festivals, and delicious cuisine. Known for its picturesque mountains, hot springs and pristine wilderness, Hokkaido attracts travellers from around the globe seeking an authentic and immersive experience.
If you wish to experience snow covered landscapes, make Hokkaido you first destination. They have many winter-themed festivals such as the internationally known Sapporo Snow Festival. While you’re there, you should also check out the seafood at the century-old Nijo Market. This authentic fish market is a feast for the senses, with stalls selling everything from freshly caught fish to sushi and sashimi. You can wander through the market, sampling different seafood dishes as you go.
Hokkaido is also known for their miso-based ramen broths. There are several Muslim-friendly restaurants in Sapporo where they offer separate halal menu and is cooked in a separate kitchen along with separate utensils to ensure Muslim diners can enjoy their ramen without any concerns.
They have their own website for Muslims.
With its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and growing amenities for Muslim travellers, Hokkaido should be in your travel bucket list when you’re planning to visit Japan.
Link:
Welcome to Hokkaido
Hyogo
Hyogo, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is a captivating prefecture known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. Its capital, Kobe City, is a bustling port city with many Muslim-friendly attractions and food. When it comes to food, there is nothing better than savouring some Kobe beef while you’re in Hyogo.
There are many Muslim-friendly restaurants in Hyogo, especially in the Kobe city area. And most of the Muslim-friendly restaurants serves Halal certified Kobe beef.
Hyogo is also known for their serene hot springs, historic castles, and mountains. Attractions in Hyogo that should be in your travel list are, Arima Onsen, Takeda Castle Ruins, Himeji Castle, Mount Rokko, Ako Onsen and Genbudo Museum.
The oldest mosque in Japan is located here, Kobe Muslim Mosque. And many Muslims live there.
With its fascinating history, diverse landscapes, and growing amenities for Muslim travellers, Hyogo has emerged as an attractive destination for those seeking a Muslim-friendly experience in Japan. Looking for a new place to travel Japan? Make Hyogo your next travel destination.
Link:
Muslim friendly
Gifu
Nestled in the heart of Japan, Gifu stands as an exquisite prefecture, inviting travelers to embark on a captivating journey of diverse experiences. From those with an affinity for history and seekers of natural beauty to enthusiasts of distinctive cultures and delectable cuisine, Gifu caters abundantly to all interests and desires.
With rich history dating back to the Edo period, there are plenty of historic landmarks to visit with some places will transport you back in time. One of the attractions is The Ancient Village of Shirakawa-go, which is also listed in the UNESCO World Heritage site. Tourist who has been there called Shirakawa-go as a living museum that shows what life was like in rural Japan during the Edo period.
Hida Takayama City has been implementing the Hida Takayama Muslim Friendly Project since 2014, and has many Muslim-friendly products available in the city.
Gifu prides itself on its warm hospitality and friendly locals, which contribute to its reputation as a Muslim-friendly destination. Muslim-friendly restaurants are growing in number, providing tantalizing authentic Japanese cuisines for Muslim travellers.
So many places, so little time. With that being said, Gifu has emerged as an appealing destination for those seeking a Muslim-friendly experience in Japan.
Link:
Restaurant information for Muslims
Okayama
Okayama, located in the Chugoku region of Japan, is a prefecture known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cultural heritage. Situated between the Seto Inland Sea and the Chugoku Mountains, Okayama offers a diverse range of attractions that captivate visitors from around the world.
While often bypassed by the majority of Japan’s travellers, Okayama holds a trove of treasures for those seeking a unique and less frequented adventure. This city boasts one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, a particularly enchanting sight during the cherry blossom season. Korakuen Garden stands as the premier attraction in Okayama, acclaimed as one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, a distinction it shares with Kenroku-en in Kanazawa and Kairaku-en in Mito.
Encompassing a Muslim-friendly initiative known as the Peach Mark, the primary tourist regions of Okayama City, Maniwa City, and Kibichuo Town extend a warm and accommodating reception to Muslim travellers.
While being the lesser known wonders of Japan, Okayama have so much to offer for new travellers. Whether it’s exploring the historic Okayama Castle, strolling through the enchanting Korakuen Garden, or experiencing traditional crafts and arts, these itineraries offer an inclusive and enriching journey through Okayama’s cultural and natural treasures.
Link:
OKAYAMA HEALTH TOURISM
For even more recommendations across Japan, head over to these links:
Final Notes
We genuinely hope that this article has provided you with the information you were seeking regarding visiting Japan as a Muslim traveller. Japan is a captivating country that effortlessly blends natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern marvels, offering a little something for everyone’s taste and interests. From picturesque landscapes to bustling cities, ancient temples to futuristic technology, Japan presents an array of experiences waiting to be discovered.
With a bit of preparation, Japan awaits you with open arms and a wealth of unforgettable experiences. From the historic temples of Kyoto to the bustling streets of Tokyo, from the serene beauty of Mount Fuji to the vibrant food scenes of Osaka, there is so much to explore and enjoy. May your journey be filled with wonderful memories, cultural discoveries and delightful encounters. Happy travels and have an incredible time exploring the wonders of Japan!
