As Muslim tourism grows, Japan rethinks where visitors can pray

As Japan attracts more foreign visitors, including many Muslims, a practical question has c: where can travelers pray? In 2025, over half a million tourists came from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Middle East. While Japan has many attractions, the lack of easily accessible prayer spaces can make travel more difficult for Muslims, who pray five times a day.

The Japan Tourism Agency and other organizations are encouraging hotels, airports, and shopping areas to create quiet, clean spaces for prayer. Some airports and major train stations, like Haneda Airport and JR Tokyo Station, already have prayer rooms. Simple accommodations, such as temporary partitions or clear signage, can help visitors pray even in areas without dedicated rooms.

Despite progress in major cities, smaller regions like Shikoku and Kyushu still have few facilities. Experts advise flexibility and involving local Muslim communities to identify suitable locations. By accommodating Muslim travelers, Japan can show hospitality and help visitors enjoy their trips while respecting their religious practices.

Source : https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20260125/p2g/00m/0bu/015000c#cxrecs_s

Comprehension

Why is finding prayer spaces important for Muslim travelers in Japan?
How many visitors came from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Middle East last year?
Which major airport opened a prayer room for international travelers?
What are some simple ways to create temporary prayer spaces?
Why are smaller regions like Shikoku and Kyushu limited in prayer facilities?

Discussion

How does providing prayer spaces show respect for different cultures?
Why might it be challenging to create prayer rooms in some areas?
How can hotels, airports, and stations balance space with traveler needs?
Should all countries with tourists provide spaces for religious practices? Why or why not?
How can involving local Muslim communities help improve facilities?
What other accommodations could help travelers from different religions?
How does cultural sensitivity affect tourism and international relations?
Can simple solutions, like partitions or signage, be enough? Why or why not?

Vocabulary

Emerge - Become known or apparent, Come out of
Facility – A place designed for a specific purpose, such as a prayer room
Accommodate – To make arrangements or provide what is needed
Hospitality – Friendly treatment of visitors or guests
Tourism – The business of providing services for travelers