Key segments from the introduction were drawn from ASIA to JAPAN’s business trip report: 【出張レポート | マレーシア】日本就職への関心は拡大中？説明会参加者増加の背景と学生の本音
In November 2025, the ASIA to JAPAN team visited several universities across Malaysia. We conducted information sessions introducing FAST OFFER — an international program designed to help global talent secure job opportunities in Japan. Through our conversations with students, we observed a growing interest in pursuing careers in Japan, particularly among those eager to gain international experience. However, despite this increasing enthusiasm, many students expressed hesitation due to a range of concerns.
One of the most significant factors is uncertainty about the Muslim experience working in Japan as a foreigner. For Muslim foreign talents considering this path, understanding the realities of the Muslim experience in Japan can help provide clarity before taking the next step. Here are some of the experiences of successful Muslim candidates who are working and living in Japan.
Availability of Halal Food in Japan
Many of our successful candidates have shared that they prepare their own meals to ensure their food meets halal requirements. Some also take the initiative to source halal-certified products online or from specialty stores, while others connect with local Muslim communities to discover trusted restaurants and grocery options.
“I read the ingredients when looking for food at the convenience store or restaurant. Allergens and ingredients are usually shown in the menu of chain restaurants and on the packaging of goods. In general, most meat in Japan isn’t halal-friendly, but fish is an easy exception. Thankfully, Japan has tons of seafood options.” – From an Indonesian Muslim engineer who is now working in Japan
The good news is that in recent years, Halal-certified restaurants in Japan have been on the rise, especially in major cities[1]. Many of these establishments offer certified halal meat, including Japanese halal ramen, curry, and even yakiniku, making it easier to enjoy local food while maintaining dietary requirements.
Another concern brought on by being Muslim was what I would eat. I could eat some Japanese dishes, but skip dishes with pork and alcohol. I would have limited options, but I would have to mostly cook for myself. The company I was touring with, though, went the extra mile. They googled for Halal restaurants nearby so we could all have lunch together. I was scared about whether my requests could be accommodated, but this company was keen. – From a Malaysian Muslim who is now working in Japan’s tech industry
Practicing Islam in Japan: Prayer Rooms, Muslim Holidays
When it comes to having prayer rooms and celebrating Muslim holidays, flexibility varies depending on the employer. Communication with employers plays a key role in balancing work and religious practices for many of our Muslim foreign talents.
Because Islam is not one of Japan’s main religions, there are no state-sanctioned Muslim holidays. You have to make some adjustments as a Muslim Indonesian working in Japan. If you want to celebrate a Muslim holiday, you can take paid leave. I’m grateful to my company for allowing me to take paid leave to celebrate Ramadan. This year, I went to Indonesia to celebrate Eid with my family. – From an Indonesian Muslim engineer who is now working in Japan
Many of our FAST OFFER Muslim candidates have found that the Muslim experience working in Japan as a foreigner becomes more manageable when they communicate their needs clearly. By explaining requirements such as short prayer breaks or adjustments during Ramadan, many have been able to foster understanding with their employers and receive reasonable accommodations in the workplace.
I was going to be their first Muslim employee, so I had to ask hard questions about whether they could help accommodate my religious needs. I had to pray five times a day, two of which would land within my work hours. Prayers would last around 10-15 minutes. I needed to know in advance if they were okay with that. Not only were they amenable, but they asked me questions from genuine curiosity, wanting to learn more. I was even happy to show them how I pray, demonstrating in front of them how it would go. – From a Malaysian Muslim who is now working in Japan’s tech industry
Shaping a More Inclusive Workplace
As the number of Muslim foreign talents in Japan continues to grow, their presence is gradually shaping a more inclusive and accommodating work environment. Companies are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of supporting religious needs. This has led to more thoughtful considerations, such as providing prayer spaces, offering flexible break times, and improving access to halal food options.
I also believe that my Presence as a Muslim in My Company helps move the needle. Given my situation and my Japanese company continuously considerately accommodating my religious conditions, I believe the company is becoming more accommodating to foreign workers. For example, we now have a prayer room that I use two to three times a day. I adjust my break times for prayer times to weave around according to my schedule, such as meetings. I need to manage my time well for that. – From an Indonesian Muslim engineer who is now working in Japan
As Muslims, we pray five times a day and eat halal food. Although the Muslim population in Japan is small, it’s the fastest-growing religion in Japan, especially among the younger generation. In parallel, some tourist spots, shopping malls, and restaurants provide halal food or prayer space. This is especially true in the capital of Japan, Tokyo. As Japanese companies actively recruit international talent and move towards globalization, more companies are more willing to accommodate the needs of their Muslim employees. – From a Malaysian Muslim international student who was able to land a job offer in Japan
As a Muslim, I had concerns about practicing my faith while working in Japan. However, the staff showed great kindness and provided support throughout the selection process, considering our religious sensitivities. So, if you have any concerns about job conditions, please do not worry. Just reach out to the ASIA to JAPAN staff, and they will undoubtedly assist you. Plus, the current culture in Japan will enable you to find ways to continue practicing your religion. Approach the challenge with confidence and without any worries. – From an Indonesian Muslim computer science professional working in Japan
10 Tips for Muslim Foreigners in Japan
- Know the kanji for pork and alcohol for when you look at package ingredients and menus
- Some key common Japanese seasonings have alcohol in it such as soy sauce and mirin
- Talk to your boss on how to fold in your prayer times during work hours
- Find your muslim community as soon as you can for information sharing and holiday celebrations
- Arrange your leaves for your religious holidays in advance
- Practice halal cooking before you go to Japan
- Use Qibla Finder and Halal Navi
- You can drink soda or juice during nomikai
- Indian, Pakistani, and Indonesian grocers often have Halal options, otherwise there are online halal shops
- Carry a prayer mat
