The decorated dome inside Tokyo Camii, a mosque in Shibuya

Halal food, prayer and privacy in Japan, explained simply by a Japanese local who lives in Dubai.

Is Japan Muslim-friendly?

Yes, with a little planning. Here is why Muslim families and couples enjoy Japan:

  • Halal restaurants: Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka have halal restaurants, from wagyu to ramen made without pork
  • Mosques: Tokyo Camii in Shibuya is one of the largest mosques in Japan and welcomes visitors
  • Prayer rooms: the main airports and many large stations and shopping centres have prayer rooms
  • Privacy: private onsen let families and couples enjoy Japan’s hot springs on their own

Find the guide you need

Halal food and prayer in JapanWhere to eat halal, where to pray and what to know as a hijabi. Onsen with privacyPrivate baths at ryokan and day-use baths for Muslim families and couples. Halal food and prayer in TokyoWhere to stay, what to see, and Tokyo Camii. Travelling with childrenWhat children love in Japan, with halal tips for theme parks. Safety and travelling as a womanHow safe Japan is for families, women and solo travellers.

Common questions

Can I wear a hijab in Japan? Yes. Many Muslim women travel in Japan wearing a hijab, and people are generally polite and respectful. Our guide to whether Japan is Muslim-friendly has more tips.

Where can I pray in Japan? At mosques such as Tokyo Camii, and in the prayer rooms at the main airports and many large stations and shopping centres. Check before you go out for the day.

Is Japan safe for Muslim students and solo travellers? Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, and many Muslim students live and study there. Read our guide to whether Japan is safe.