Finding burial grounds is becoming a pressing issue for Japan’s expanding Muslim population, with the government recently denying requests for new cemeteries. The decision stems from adherence to Japanese cultural norms and environmental concerns, adding to the strain on existing Muslim burial facilities. The Muslim community in Japan, a rapidly growing minority, is estimated to reach 350,000 individuals by 2025, a substantial increase from previous years.
Discussions in the parliament have emphasized that cremation is the predominant practice in Japan, with over 95% of citizens opting for this method. This cultural preference, coupled with worries about the environmental impact of traditional burials on water resources, has led to the rejection of proposals for additional Muslim graveyards. Japan currently operates only ten dedicated cemeteries for Muslims, a number that struggles to accommodate the rising demographic.
Authorities have informally proposed that deceased Muslim migrants could either have their funerals performed in line with Japanese traditions or be repatriated for burial abroad at their families’ expense. While formal regulations are pending, the focus of debate in Japan remains on the practicalities of land use for burial sites, rather than the socio-economic integration issues often highlighted in other countries.